HOW TO REGISTER AS A NOTARY PUBLIC
AND SALIENT FEATURES OF NOTARIES RULES, 1956
The Notaries Rules, 1956, in India, is a set of regulations established under the Notaries Act, 1952. They provide a framework for the functioning of notaries, who are public officials authorized to witness and certify documents. Here are some of the salient features of the Notaries Rules, 1956:
Eligibility and Qualifications: The rules specify the qualifications and eligibility criteria for individuals seeking to become notaries. Applicants generally need to be legal practitioners with a minimum number of years of practice or experience in the legal field.
Application Process: The rules outline the procedure for applying to become a notary, including the documentation required, the form of application, and the fee structure.
Powers and Duties: Notaries are given specific powers and responsibilities under these rules. They include witnessing and certifying signatures on documents, administering oaths, and taking affidavits. The rules detail how these powers should be exercised.
Code of Conduct: The rules establish a code of conduct for notaries to ensure they perform their duties impartially and ethically. This includes maintaining records of notarial acts and adhering to professional standards.
Fees: The Notaries Rules, 1956, provide a schedule of fees that notaries can charge for their services. These fees are intended to be reasonable and reflect the nature of the notarial acts performed.
Record Keeping: Notaries are required to maintain a register of their notarial acts. This includes details such as the date of the act, the parties involved, and a description of the act performed.
Renewal and Revocation: The rules outline the process for the renewal of notarial appointments and the circumstances under which a notary’s appointment can be revoked. This ensures that only qualified individuals continue to serve as notaries.
Training and Examination: While not detailed in the original rules, subsequent amendments and related provisions may require notaries to undergo training or pass examinations to ensure their competence.
Legal Provisions and Compliance: The rules ensure that notaries comply with the Notaries Act, 1952, and other relevant laws. They also address the procedures for addressing grievances or misconduct.
These rules are crucial for maintaining the integrity and efficacy of notarial services in India, ensuring that notaries perform their duties in a professional and legally compliant manner.
