Notary & Employer

If you hold a notary commission as part of your employment, you might be familiar with the awkward situation that arises when an employer, sometimes innocently, asks you to do something that would violate state law. You might ask yourself, "Do I do what my boss wants me to do, or do I follow the law?" Notaries can feel conflicted between their duty to their employers and their duty to uphold their oaths of office.

Since most employed notaries become commissioned at the request of their employers, they occasionally inquire as to what types of restrictions their employers can place on them when it comes to performing their notarial duties. The answer to this question differs from state to state, so be sure to consult with you state's notary laws. If state law does not address it, be sure to speak with your employer to come up with a plan that is reasonable.

Is a notary's employer liable for the notary's mistakes? The answer is usually yes. Many state's laws do not provide any limit to the liability of a notary, and when a notary is acting in the course of his or her employment, that liability often extends to the notary's employer.

Becoming a notary public is a noteworthy undertaking; there are many reasons why a person may apply for a notary commission. Some apply for a notary commission to broaden their professional credentials and skills for employment. Others become notaries at the request of an employer or as a service to their business clients. Law firms, shipping centers, banks, and post offices are a few of the many types of businesses that have notaries on staff.

Individuals who seek the office of the notary public come from many walks of life. Indeed, the vast majority of notaries have other professions and careers and obtain a notary commission in addition to their other jobs, skills, and credentials.

An employee notary is a notary who obtained a commission at the request of his or her employer. Perhaps your company transacts with clients, such as banks or insurance companies, that must have documents notarized on a regular basis.