Tuesday, May 27, 2025

What is a Notary?

 

What is a Notary?
A notary (or notary public) in India is a legal professional appointed by the central or state government under the Notaries Act, 1952. Their main role is to verify, attest, and certify documents, administer oaths, and perform other acts authorized by law.


๐Ÿ–‹ Main Functions of a Notary

  • Attesting signatures on documents

  • Certifying true copies of original documents

  • Preparing notarial acts, contracts, deeds, etc.

  • Administering oaths or affirmations

  • Noting or protesting instruments like bills of exchange

  • Preparing powers of attorney, affidavits, declarations


๐Ÿ“œ Who can become a Notary?

To be appointed as a notary, a person must:

  • Be an advocate with at least 10 years’ experience (7 years for SC/ST/women)

  • Apply to the Central or State Government with prescribed fees

  • Be appointed by the Central Government (for whole of India) or State Government (for the state)


๐Ÿ”น Where to find a notary?

You can typically find notaries:

  • Near district courts, high courts, or local courts

  • In legal offices, law chambers, or independent notary offices

  • Some government departments and banks have in-house notaries


๐Ÿ’ฐ Notary Fees

The fees are regulated by the Notaries Rules, 1956, and depend on the type of service:

  • Attesting documents: usually ₹15–₹25 per document

  • Certifying copies: ₹5–₹10 per page

  • Preparing affidavits, declarations: ₹75–₹150 approx.
    (Some notaries may charge additional service fees, but they should follow the notified limits)


How to check if a notary is valid?

You can check the notary’s registration number on their stamp or seal. You may also cross-check with the Ministry of Law and Justice (for central notaries) or the State Law Department (for state notaries).

No comments:

Post a Comment