New York State Notary Practice Exam 2025 - Free Notary Practice Questions and Study Guide

It is correct that a public officer may receive a fee in advance for services only if expressly allowed by law. This principle is rooted in the regulations governing the conduct of public officers and notaries. These regulations are designed to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness in the fees charged for services provided to the public.

When a law explicitly allows a public officer to collect fees in advance, it serves to clarify the situations in which such practices are acceptable. This helps protect individuals and the integrity of public service. If no law permits the advance collection of fees, then it would be deemed improper and potentially lead to issues of misconduct or misuse of public office.

The other options suggest blanket permissions or prohibitions, which do not accurately reflect the nuances of the law. Without specific legislative backing, advance fees are generally discouraged to avoid conflicts of interest and to prevent the exploitation of the public. This ensures that all fees are collected fairly and transparently based on the services rendered at the time.