Notarians

Notarian is a term used to describe a person who performs notarial acts, commonly known as a notary or notary public in many jurisdictions. Notarians are authorized by a government authority to witness, authenticate, and record certain legal documents and acts.

Duties typically include administering oaths and affidavits, witnessing signatures, acknowledging signatures for documents to be used elsewhere, certifying copies, and keeping a notarial journal. Notaries may also administer jurats (sworn statements) and verify the signer’s identity, capacity, and understanding. In many places, the notarial act requires the affixing of an official seal or stamp and the retention of specific information about the act.

Jurisdictional differences: In common-law countries such as the United States, notaries public are appointed by state authorities and generally have limited powers, mainly verifying identity and witnessing execution; they do not provide legal representation or routine legal advice as part of their duties. In civil-law jurisdictions, notaries (often called notarios or notaires) are trained lawyers who draft and authenticate substantial legal instruments and may handle real estate transactions, wills, and company deeds, under stricter professional responsibility rules.

Terminology and scope: The term notarian is relatively uncommon in formal usage; most contexts use notary or notary public. The exact powers and requirements for becoming a notarian vary by country, state, or province, including age, residency, background checks, exams, and bonds or insurance.

See also: Notary public; Civil-law notary; Notarial act; Apostille; Authentication.