Quick Summary
A Notary Public is a legally authorized person who acts as an impartial witness in signing important documents, administers oaths, and certifies the authenticity of signatures and documents.
A Notary Public is an officer appointed by the government to serve as an impartial witness in performing a variety of official acts related to the signing of important documents, administering oaths and affirmations, and certifying copies of documents.
Functions of a Notary
- Attesting Documents: Verifying and authenticating signatures on documents
- Administering Oaths: Administering oaths and affirmations for affidavits
- Certifying Copies: Certifying true copies of original documents
- Witnessing Signatures: Being present when parties sign documents
- Noting Protests: Recording protests of negotiable instruments
- Authenticating Documents: For use in foreign countries
Who Can Be a Notary
- Advocates with at least 10 years of practice (7 years for SC/ST/women)
- Judicial officers with sufficient experience
- Legal practitioners with required qualifications
- Appointed by the Central or State Government
Documents Requiring Notarization
- Property sale deeds and agreements
- Power of Attorney documents
- Affidavits and declarations
- Foreign documents for use abroad
- Business contracts and agreements
- Legal notices and replies
Notary Fees
Notary fees in India are regulated by the government. Typical charges range from ₹25 to ₹500 depending on the type of document and value involved. For high-value documents, fees may be calculated as a percentage of the value.
Key Points
- Public officer authorized to witness signatures and administer oaths
- Appointed by Central or State Government
- Makes documents legally authentic and admissible
- Required for many legal and property documents
- Fees are regulated by government notification
- Must maintain a notarial register of all acts