The full explanation
So a notario is not the same as a notary public in the states, whose main job is witnessing signatures and administering oaths. Under the law, the notary is not the lawyer for any of the parties and must be impartial. A notary can also handle some uncontested matters, such as a declaration of heirs. The Supreme Court oversees notaries through the Office of Notarial Inspection (ODIN).
An example
To buy his home in Caguas, Miguel signs the deed of sale before a notario. The notary drafts the deed, attests to what is signed before them and represents neither Miguel nor the seller.
You will see it in…
- The public deed of sale or mortgage deed
- The notary's record of an uncontested matter, such as a declaration of heirs
- Certificates from the Office of Notarial Inspection (ODIN)
