Best Notary Services Lawyers in Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

1. About Notary Services Law in Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

Notary services in Jordan are provided by licensed professionals known as كاتب عدل (notary publics). Their core function is to authenticate signatures, certify copies, administer oaths, and prepare or witness notarial deeds and documents. These acts have formal legal effect and are commonly required for real estate, business transactions, and cross-border document use.

The legal framework for notaries in Jordan is administered by the Ministry of Justice, which sets licensing requirements, ongoing duties, and fee structures. Notarial acts are governed by dedicated notary provisions as well as intersecting civil and administrative law. In practice, a properly qualified notary ensures that documents comply with Jordanian law and are admissible in court or for use abroad.

Source: Ministry of Justice - Notary Services guidance and regulatory framework. https://www.moj.gov.jo

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Notary work often intersects with broader legal issues where professional counsel helps prevent risk and ensure enforceability. Below are concrete, real-world scenarios in Jordan where consulting a lawyer before engaging a notary can save time and money.

• A foreign investor purchases Jordanian real estate and requires a notarized deed, mortgage documents, and power of attorney to be valid in Jordan and abroad. A lawyer helps ensure the documents meet notarial and foreign-use requirements.
• Family succession involves notarized wills, sworn affidavits, or affidavits of heirs. A lawyer can align notarization with Jordanian inheritance law to avoid later disputes.
• Cross-border business setups require notarized company documents, shareholder resolutions, and authentic copies for ministries or banks. Legal advice helps avoid defects in corporate documentation.
• Affidavits or declarations for immigration, education, or licensing require precise wording, proper attestation, and, if needed, apostille or legalization. A lawyer coordinates these steps with the notary and authorities.
• Administrative appeals or court filings depend on properly notarized evidence or witness statements. A lawyer ensures that the notarial acts will be accepted by the court and comply with procedural rules.
• Document legalization for use abroad may require notary services plus apostille or Jordanian legalization. A lawyer can navigate both the notary process and the foreign affairs requirements.

3. Local Laws Overview

Key instruments commonly cited in Jordan for notarial services include a Notaries Public Law and related regulations, alongside general civil and administrative laws that govern documentary evidence and procedure. These materials establish who may act as a notary, the scope of notarial acts, and the formalities required for enforceability in Jordan.

• Notaries Public Law - Establishes authority, qualifications, and ethical duties of كاتب عدل, including the essential steps for licensing and discipline.
• Notarial Fees Regulation - Sets the schedule of fees for different notarial acts, ensuring transparency for clients and consistency across offices.
• Civil Procedures/Civil Code provisions - Interact with notarial acts in areas such as affidavits, certified copies, and documentary evidence used in courts.

Recent regulatory developments in Jordan emphasize digital notary practices and clearer guidance on document authentication procedures. For official guidance, consult the Ministry of Justice and the Legislation Portal. Ministry of Justice • Legislation Portal

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a notary public in Jordan and what do they do?

A notary public in Jordan witnesses signatures, certifies copies, administers oaths, and prepares or authenticates notarial deeds. They ensure documents meet legal standards for use in Jordan and abroad. Their acts carry evidentiary weight in court when properly executed.

How do I locate a licensed Notary Public in Amman or other cities?

Start with the Ministry of Justice directory or official portals that list licensed notaries by region. Verify current licensing, office location, and contact details before scheduling. Ask for a clear written estimate of fees upfront.

What documents should I bring to a notary appointment in Jordan?

Bring original documents, valid identification, and any drafts of the documents to be notarized. If translations are required, bring certified translations. For copies, bring the originals to allow certification of true copies.

How much do notary services cost in Jordan today?

Notary fees vary by act and jurisdiction. Expect charges for signature attestations, copies, translations, and complex deeds. Always obtain an itemized quote before proceeding and ask about potential additional costs for translations or apostilles.

Do I need a lawyer to handle notarial acts for real estate?

For straightforward deeds, a notary may suffice. Complex transactions often benefit from legal review to ensure compliance with real estate law, mortgage requirements, and registry entries. A lawyer can coordinate with the notary to avoid procedural pitfalls.

How long does it take to complete a notarial deed in Jordan?

Simple attestations can be completed in a single visit. More complex deeds or documents requiring translations and court filings may take several days to a few weeks. Timelines depend on document readiness and government processing times.

Can a notary certify copies of documents in Jordan?

Yes, notaries may certify that copies are true copies of the originals. Bring the original document and the desired number of copies. Certified copies are commonly required for official translations, registrations, and administrative applications.

What is the difference between a notary public and a lawyer in Jordan?

A notary publics primary function is to attest and certify documents. A lawyer provides legal advice, represents clients, and handles litigation or negotiation. Notaries do not replace legal counsel when interpretation of law is needed.

Is it necessary to apostille or legalize a document notarized in Jordan for use abroad?

Often yes. Some jurisdictions require apostille or legalization after notarial acts, especially for international use. Check the target country’s requirements and, if needed, obtain apostille from the Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

How do I schedule an appointment with a notary in Jordan?

Contact the notary office directly or use official portals to find appointment options. Some offices offer walk-in times while others require appointments. Prepare documents and confirm fees before your visit.

Do notaries in Jordan handle digital or electronic signatures?

Jordan supports traditional notarial acts and is expanding electronic capabilities in some offices. Confirm with the specific notary whether electronic signatures or digital documentation are accepted for your case.

What steps should I take if I disagree with a notarial act?

Consult a lawyer promptly to review the notarial deed for potential errors or improper procedure. You may seek correction or rescission through the appropriate court procedures if warranted. Preserve all original documents and notes from the notary session.

5. Additional Resources

• Ministry of Justice (Jordan) - Notary Services - Official government overview of notary licensing, duties, and standards. https://www.moj.gov.jo
• Legislation Portal (Jordan) - Official repository of laws and regulations, including notarial acts and related procedures. https://legislation.gov.jo
• Jordan Government Portal - Central access point for government services and contact information for authorities dealing with document authentication and civil procedures. https://portal.jordan.gov.jo

6. Next Steps

1. Identify the specific notarial service you need (attestation, certified copies, deed preparation, power of attorney, etc.). Gather all related documents and IDs.
2. Check that the notary you plan to use is currently licensed. Confirm this with the Ministry of Justice or the official directory on the MOJ site.
3. Request a written estimate of all fees and any translation or apostille costs. Ask for a breakdown by act and document type.
4. Prepare documents and translations in advance. If translations are required, use a certified translator and obtain notarization of the translation if needed.
5. Schedule the appointment and bring originals, copies, and IDs. Confirm the payment method and timing of the notarial act.
6. Obtain the notarial deed, certified copies, and any attestations. Ask for a receipt and a stamped copy for your records.
7. If you plan to use the document abroad, determine whether apostille or legalization is required and arrange it through the appropriate government office.