A notary should take their commission certificate, journal, and stamp with them when leaving an employer because these items are personal and integral to the notary's duties and responsibilities. The commission certificate is a legal document that authorizes the notary to perform their functions, and it is vital to keep it secure and under the notary's control. The journal is a record of all notarial acts performed and must be safeguarded to ensure privacy and compliance with the notary laws, as it may contain sensitive information regarding the signers. The notary's stamp or seal is uniquely associated with that individual and should not be left behind or used by anyone else, as it can lead to misuse or unauthorized notarization.
Maintaining possession of these items helps prevent potential fraud and preserves the integrity of the notary's work. Proper handling of these materials is crucial for maintaining compliance with state regulations governing notarial practices. Returning items to the state or leaving them at the office could lead to security risks or unauthorized use, while destroying them would eliminate the notary's ability to perform their duties in the future.