The Notary and the Employer

The Notary and the Employer

You might provide notarial services solely in the workplace. Additionally, you may provide service outside the workplace. But, there must be an understood relationship between the notary and the employer. As a notary, one must act in accordance with the laws of the State. At times, an employer may request you to perform in inappropriate notarization. If you aspire to become a notary public in New York, or in any state, keep reading.

Let’s remember that the notary is subject to liability. This is why there must be a clear understanding between the notary the employer that we will not circumvent the laws that govern our commission. When you perform notarial service for your employer, both the employer and, you are subject to liability. Bear in mind, your notarial duties are dictated by the State, and not the employer. Thus, you may wish to read our article called, “The Notary as an Employee.”

What your Employer Must Understand

Our employer must understand what we can and cannot do as notaries. So, if our boss asks us to notarize a document for his or her offspring, as a favor, we cannot do it. Not unless the individual appears before us. This can present a contentious situation between you and your boss. But, if we create an understanding at the outset of our employment, we can minimize this type of situation.

Since we may be an employee, it becomes imperative for the company to understand that we are subject to the regulations of the law that governs us. Yes, the employer is in control of our employment, but they are not in control of our performance regarding notarization. The notary and the employer need to have a mutual understanding.

When everyone understands that accountability falls on both the notary and the employer, potential problems are then eliminated. The term “Best Practices” is just that, the best practice. A good Book to read on notary accountability is: Professor’s Closen’s Notary Best Practices Expert’s Guide to Notarization of Documents.

You can also obtain the book at Google Books.

For a detailed outline of best practices between the notary and the employer, watch this excellent YouTube video.

If you’d like to know more about our Notary Training Program, visit our About the Course page.