Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has commended the introduction of a new book on the practice of Notaries Public in Ghana, describing it as a valuable resource that will bring much-needed clarity to the profession.
Her remarks were delivered on her behalf by Superior Court Judge, His Lordship Justice Richard Apietu, at the launch of the book “Notaries Public Practice in Ghana – The Law, Cases and Materials” on March 27.
In Ghana, a Notary Public is appointed by the Chief Justice and serves as a public officer authorized to handle non-contentious matters, including financial transactions, estates, deeds, and international business, as well as to attest to signatures and execute documents.
The 1,514-page book, authored by legal practitioner and researcher Daniel Yaw Abaidoo, is the first of its kind in Ghana, contextualizing notarial practice within the country’s legal framework while aligning with global standards.
Delivering the keynote address, His Lordship Justice Apietu highlighted the book’s significance:
“This is a welcome addition to the evolving and growing number of treatises on legal and procedural practice informed by Ghanaian jurisprudence. It is the first of its kind by an author within our jurisdiction, contextualized on Ghanaian jurisprudence and informed by the standards and requirements of global notarial practice.”
He noted that the book fills a long-standing gap in legal scholarship:
“Despite an increasing number of local authors writing on various aspects of law, the absence of a book dedicated to notarial practice in Ghana has been a void crying to be filled. I am delighted that the author has laboured to address this need.”
The book provides a comprehensive guide to notarial practice, including relevant laws, judicial pronouncements, and other materials shaping the profession.
Justice Apietu emphasized its importance for legal professionals and students:
“It will serve as a resource and guide for law students and practitioners in areas such as property law, conveyancing, wills, probate and administration, evidence law, civil procedure, and commercial and company law. It will also promote professional discipline, conduct, and ethics, ensuring credibility and integrity in the drafting and execution of legal documents.”
Commending the author, he added:
“His leadership in providing the first comprehensive book on notarial practice within our jurisdiction is commendable. I look forward to its active use as a reference source and a handbook for many. This book is unreservedly recommended.”
In his welcome address, Mr. Yaw Abaidoo shared that he conceived the idea of writing the book five years ago.
“It has been inspired largely by my growing interest in Notaries Public, my quest to understand the subject, the ambit of its practice, and its role in the Ghanaian judicial system,” he explained.
He further stated that he sought to contribute to legal scholarship and provide guidance for legal practitioners, commissioners for oaths, court officials, and individuals seeking notarial services.
The book launch also featured a fundraising auction, with the first copy selling for GH₵20,000, while other copies were sold at GH₵10,000, GH₵5,000, and GH₵3,000.