Notary officiating marriages - Can I legally refuse?

[cre8ivim]

What is the name of your state? FL

I am considering becoming a Notary and officiating marriages. However, I want the right to refuse my service to anyone I don't feel right about. For example, my religious beliefs would not allow me to participate in wiccan or devil worship type ceremonies.

Can I legally refuse, or would I be guilty of discrimination?What is the name of your state?

 

[seniorjudge]

Q: Can I legally refuse, or would I be guilty of discrimination?

A: Yes, you can legally refuse and yes, you would be guilty of discrimination.

 

[cre8ivim]

So, I want to clarify your answer. Are you saying I can refuse, but they could sue me for discrimination?

 

[seniorjudge]

Q: So, I want to clarify your answer. Are you saying I can refuse, but they could sue me for discrimination?

A: Well, that wasn't the right question, but I will answer it anyway. Anyone may sue anybody else for anything at any time any where.


(By the way, you can discriminate and it is not illegal.)

 

[las365]

I'm curious as to why you are worried that devil worshippers will demand that you perform marriage ceremonies for them. Is there any particular reason for your concern?

 

[cre8ivim]

Ha, ha what is the right question?

I thought it was illegal for an employer or a business owner to discriminate based on race, religion, etc.

 

[seniorjudge]

Q: I thought it was illegal for an employer or a business owner to discriminate based on race, religion, etc.

A: You are correct.


You are not an employer or a business owner. You don't have to notarize anything and you do not have to have a reason. In fact, (just to be on the safe side) do NOT tell someone WHY you are refusing to notarize something.

WRONG: I will not notarize this because you look like a stinking crook!

RIGHT: I will not notarize this.

 

[cre8ivim]

Dear Las365,

Someone told me a story about a guy who asked a notary to officiate his marriage. The notary agreed, but when she arrived at the ceremony, it was set up for a demonic religion. She was very uncomfortable about it, but felt she couldn't refuse so she went through with it.

I don't want to be put in that kind of situation without knowing if I can refuse without getting myself into legal trouble.

There may be other reasons too. I just want to know if I can refuse if I feel uncomfortable for any reason.

 

[seniorjudge]

I am assuming that notaries can marry people in your jurisdiction.

You don't have to marry anyone if you don't want to.

 

[cre8ivim]

Dear SeniorJudge,

Yes, a notary can marry people in my jurisdiction. I live in Sarasota, FL

Thank you for all your answers.