Notary Public
In Jamaica, a Notary Public is an Attorney-at-Law with a standing of ten years and upward who is authorized to authenticate contracts, acknowledge deeds, take affidavits, protest bills of exchange, take depositions, etc. Appointments are made depending on the needs of any particular parish. The Ministry of Justice administers the process of appointment of Attorneys-at-law who are recommended for appointment as Notaries Public in keeping with the Notaries Public Act. The Supreme Court of Jamaica keeps the record/roll of Notaries Public.
Procedure for Notary Public
- The qualification of all candidates is considered. In making a selection, great weight is given to the public convenience and the locality in which applicants practice and where the new appointment is required.
- Applicants for appointment as Notaries Public for the whole Island are required to furnish, with their application, two certification of fitness to practice as a Notary, signed by existing Notaries, or practicing Attorney-at-Law of not less than 10 years standing.
- Such applications should be submitted to the Ministry of Justice. The Ministry will then refer this application to the Chief Justice who will request a confidential report on the applicant from the Society of Notaries Public.
- If the application appears suitable, the applicant’s name will be placed on a waiting list.
- When a vacancy occurs, or the public interest requires the appointment of another Notary, a selection of a candidate for appointment will be made from this list depending on the date of application.
- When this process is completed then the applicant will be advised of the outcome and the required formalities for appointment will be effected
