D.C. Code § 1-1231.07: Authority to refuse to perform notarial act.

(a)

A notarial officer may refuse to perform a notarial act if the officer is not satisfied that:

(1)

The individual executing the record is competent or has the capacity to execute the record; or

(2)

The individual's signature is knowingly and voluntarily made.

(a-1)

A notarial officer may refuse to perform a notarial act if the officer does not read or understand the language of the document being notarized.

(a-2)

A notarial officer may require a signer to provide a certified translation of the document being notarized.

(b)

A notarial officer may refuse to perform a notarial act unless refusal is prohibited by a law other than this chapter.