Notary

Notary

A Notary is a person authorized to perform certain legal formalities, especially to draw up or certify contracts, deeds, and other documents for use in other jurisdictions. Notaries are appointed by a government authority, such as a court or state government. The main functions of a notary include administering oaths and affirmations, taking affidavits and statutory declarations, witnessing and authenticating the execution of certain classes of documents, and taking acknowledgments of deeds and other conveyances.

History

The concept of a notary is of ancient origin. The Roman notarii were scribes, secretaries, or persons who took notes of judicial proceedings. The name "notary" is derived from the Latin word notarius, meaning "clerk".

Duties and functions

The duties and functions of notaries vary widely across different countries. In some countries, such as the United States, notaries are primarily witnesses to the signing of documents. In other countries, such as England and Wales, notaries may perform a wide range of legal activities.

United States

In the United States, a notary public has powers that are far-reaching and are capable of performing many legal activities, although they cannot represent others before the courts, prepare legal documents or give legal advice.

England and Wales

In England and Wales, a notary is a qualified lawyer who is also an officer of the court. They are capable of preparing, attesting, and certifying deeds for use in foreign countries.

Qualifications and appointment

The qualifications and appointment of notaries can vary widely from one jurisdiction to another. In some jurisdictions, a notary must be a lawyer. In others, a simple course of study and examination may be sufficient.

See also

• Notary public
• Civil law notary
• List of notaries

References

Notary Resources
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