What to Bring When Notarizing Employment Dispute Documents

Employment disputes are complicated enough without showing up to a notary appointment unprepared and having to reschedule. Whether you're dealing with wrongful termination, discrimination, or contract disagreements, getting your documents properly notarized is often a critical step in protecting your rights. But what exactly do you need to bring to ensure the process goes smoothly?
Being prepared for your notarization appointment saves time, prevents frustration, and ensures your employment dispute documents are executed correctly the first time. Missing even one item can delay your case, and in legal matters, timing can be everything. Let's walk through exactly what you need to bring.
Essential Items for Notarizing Employment Dispute Documents

1. Valid Government-Issued Photo Identification
This is non-negotiable. You must bring a current, unexpired photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. The notary will carefully examine your ID to verify your identity before proceeding with any notarization. If your ID is expired, even by one day, the notary cannot legally notarize your documents. Make sure the name on your ID matches the name on the documents you're signing.
2. All Unsigned Documents Bring
your employment dispute documents completely filled out but unsigned. Never sign documents before meeting with the notary—you must sign in the notary's presence for the notarization to be valid. If you're not sure which documents need notarization, bring everything related to your case and the notary can help identify what requires their seal and signature.
3. Copies of Supporting Employment Records
While these won't be notarized themselves, bringing copies of relevant employment records helps provide context. This might include offer letters, employment contracts, performance reviews, or termination notices. If you're creating an affidavit about your employment history, having these records handy ensures the dates, job titles, and other details you're swearing to are accurate.
4. Names and Contact Information for Witnesses
If your employment dispute involves witness statements from coworkers, bring their full legal names and contact information. The notary may need to verify certain details, and if witnesses will be providing their own notarized statements, you'll want their information organized and ready. Keep in mind that each witness must appear before the notary personally for their own statement.
5. Attorney Contact Information and Instructions
If you're working with an employment attorney, bring their contact information and any specific instructions they've provided about the notarization. Some attorneys have particular requirements about how documents should be executed, and your notary can coordinate with legal counsel if questions arise during the appointment. This is especially important for complex severance agreements or settlement documents.
6. Payment Method
Notary services aren't free, so bring an appropriate payment method. Ask ahead of time whether the notary accepts cash, checks, or credit cards. Mobile notaries typically charge more than stationary notaries due to travel time and expenses. Know the total cost before your appointment so you're prepared to pay when services are completed.
7. Any Previously Notarized Related Documents
If you've already had some employment documents notarized as part of your dispute—perhaps an earlier affidavit or a power of attorney—bring copies of those as well. This helps the notary understand the full context of your case and ensures consistency across all your documentation. It can also prevent duplicate notarizations or conflicting statements.
Special Considerations for Employment Documents
​Employment dispute documents often involve multiple parties, complex timelines, and legal technicalities. If you're unsure whether something should be notarized or how to fill out certain sections, don't guess. Contact your attorney before the appointment or ask the notary for guidance. While notaries cannot provide legal advice, they can explain the notarization process and what's required for valid execution.
Also consider whether you need multiple notarized copies of certain documents. Courts, government agencies, and opposing counsel may each require original notarized versions rather than photocopies. Getting everything notarized at once saves you from scheduling multiple appointments.
Being prepared for your notarization appointment shows professionalism and respect for everyone's time, while ensuring your employment dispute documents are handled correctly when it matters most. At Notary2Notary, we specialize in employment-related document notarization and understand the sensitivity and urgency these situations require. We'll guide you through what you need and ensure everything is executed properly. Visit www.notary2notary.com to schedule your appointment and bring your case one step closer to resolution.