Sovereign Citizens 101: What Notaries Need To Know (Before Our Oct 7 Session)

Registration and Replay link for the special training event with Captain Cory Flowers

A quick primer so you walk into next week’s training informed

If you’re a notary, you’re a guardian of public trust. Most days, that means routine IDs, signatures, journals, done. But every now and then, an appointment feels “off.”

The language is odd. The demands get pushy. You’re told you “must” notarize a stack of pages immediately or you’ll be “liable.” That’s often your cue you’re dealing with the sovereign citizen movement.

What is the sovereign citizen movement (in plain English)?

It’s a loose, anti-government ideology. Adherents claim they’re “sovereign” and not subject to U.S. laws or authorities like courts, taxes, DMV, you name it. The FBI has long described these actors as anti-government extremists, and their encounters can escalate quickly, especially when officials push back. 

A (very) short history and why it matters to us

The ideas evolved from tax-protest and anti-government currents of the late 20th century and splintered into variants (you may hear “Moorish sovereign citizens,” among others). While beliefs vary, the playbook often includes pseudo-legal filings and tactics aimed at overwhelming systems and professionals. 

Their favorite tactic: “paper terrorism”

Expect frivolous liens, bogus UCC filings, fake financial instruments, and reams of pseudo-legal paperwork designed to intimidate or entangle you. State filing offices and the National Association of Secretaries of State have warned about these harassment filings for years. 

Practical red flags notaries report seeing

• Red thumbprints or signatures in red ink

• Zip codes in brackets, unusual punctuation in names/addresses

• Phrases like “UCC 1-308,” “without prejudice,” “all rights reserved,” “not a citizen of the United States” inserted near signature lines

• Demands that you “certify” facts in the document (outside your lawful notarial acts)

• Threats of personal liability if you refuse to notarize everything in a packet

These indicators don’t automatically mean “sovereign citizen,” but when stacked together, they’re a signal to slow down and move by the book. 

What to do if you suspect this is what you’re facing

Stay in your lane. You notarize identities and signatures, not document content or legal claims. If the request exceeds what your state authorizes, you can (and should) decline. 

Use neutral, professional language. Don’t debate ideology; return to statute and required elements (personal appearance, ID, willingness, awareness).

Document carefully. Journal thoroughly and keep copies of anything you’re legally allowed to retain.

Prioritize safety. If you feel threatened, end the appointment and leave. For harassment or fraudulent filings, consult your commissioning authority and, when appropriate, law enforcement. Guidance for agencies highlights the risk of escalation when challenged, which is why de-escalation and boundaries matter. 

Why we’re bringing in Captain Kory Flowers on Oct 7

Captain Kory Flowers is a 25-year veteran and Police Captain with the Greensboro, NC Police Department. He trains nationally on subversive criminal groups (including sovereign citizens), leadership, and tactical communication, and he helped shape practitioner guides used by courts and agencies.  He is featured on podcasts and a guest host on the weekly television show On Patrol Live.  We’re fortunate to have him. 

Join us live

Sovereign Citizens: What Every Notary Needs to Know

Tuesday, October 7 • 9:00 AM PT (Noon ET)

Featuring Captain Kory Flowers, with Judith ("Judi") Lawrence and me.

Register here

Can’t attend live? A replay is included using the same link above. 

Note: This article is educational and not legal advice. Always follow your state’s notary laws and guidance.

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