Notaries can be traced back to the time of ancient Rome. Scribes, who used to simply copy texts, slowly took on other roles. They were required to record meetings, speeches and negotiations. They acted as witnesses to events and they kept official records of court proceedings. Nowadays notaries also perform all these functions. They are appointed by the government or by high court judges.
One very often performed task of notaries is to certify that copies of an original are indeed true copies without any alteration whatsoever. Everyone needs certifies copies of documents from time to time. Notaries also administer oaths, both in court cases where witnesses are required to swear that they will speak the truth, and also when anybody wants to make a statement and swear that the content is true.
Taking down depositions and affidavits is another important task performed by notaries. With affidavits, a statement is made but a deposition is more like an interview with questions and answers. These are often used by attorneys to help them understand exactly what potential witnesses in court saw, experienced, done or heard. These can be lengthy and time consuming and that is why some notaries are also qualified stenographers.
Notaries are sometimes called upon to act as official witness during formal negotiations and discussions. They will keep record of the decisions made and the terms that all the parties agreed to. They will then notarize the final agreement, indicating that the document is indeed a true reflection of the results of the discussions or negotiations. Notarized agreements are very difficult to challenge in court.
Events that need to be officially recognized by a body such as the Guinness World Records also need to be refereed by notaries. They make sure that the event proceeds exactly according to the rules and they will certify the final outcome. In certain cases courts may require notaries to act as witnesses that specific orders of the court has been carried out.
The compulsory records kept by all notaries are detailed and they serve a very important function. If any dispute arises, the records of the notary will confirm, without a shadow of doubt, that an affidavit has been made, a deposition taken down, and oath sworn or that a specific event has indeed taken place. In most cases the official records of notaries serve to clear up misunderstandings and their very existence often prevent disputes.
Only those considered being one hundred per cent honest and above reproach, those with no criminal histories, those that are considered to be individuals of high integrity are considered for appointment as notaries. They play an important role in society and serving in that capacity is seen as an honour. Notaries help to keep the wheels of justice turning.
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