Notary public

A notary is a professional entrusted with a public function who authenticates transactions to ensure legal certainty and prevent disputes. In deeds drawn up by the notary, the document is created by the notary personally; in certifications, the signature or the date is attested.

Powers of attorney, formal notices, promises to sell immovable property, waivers of inheritance and vehicle sales are among the many transactions handled at notary offices, and for some the notarial form is a condition of validity. With digitalisation, certain transactions can now be completed remotely with electronic signature.

Notarial deeds are strong evidence: instruments drawn up by the notary are treated as valid until proven forged. Notaries are strictly liable for damage caused by their transactions, a heavy liability that underpins the rigour of their identity and intent checks.