What is a Civil Law Notary Public?

The Louisiana Notary, a civil law notary, has broad powers usually reserved only for attorneys in other states. Notaries (non-attorney) must demonstrate a proficiency in legal matters within the scope of this broad power & authority by passing an exam administered by the courts and has a historical pass rate of 18% to 20% statewide.

Although a Notary may not provide legal advice or represent a client in court, a Notary CAN draft, prepare, & execute affidavits, acknowledgments, & authentic Acts, affecting both movable and immovable property, such as:

• Security Agreements
• Mortgages
• Acts of Sale, Donation, or Exchange
• Bond-for-Deed
• Acts of Adoption
• Guarantee Letters
• Mandates (Power of Attorney)
• Affidavits of Heirship
• Small Successions
• Wills
• Trusts
• Real Estate Transfers and related Acts
• Partitions of Property
• Incorporation
• Limited Liability Companies
• Partnership Agreements
• Matrimonial Agreements
• Public Inventories
• Contracts
• Generally, any instrument in writing