New regulations are to be introduced by the Ministry of Justice to regulate the work of notaries public and “documenters” – including penalties for any transgressions, according to sources. The ministry has been assigned to issue these new regulations after an order was issued by the King. The new rules will see part of the work done traditionally by notaries, assigned to “documenters”. The rules will apply to all contracts and reports which do not fall under the jurisdiction of the Shariah courts. Notaries public and “documenters” can only work if they have a license issued by the justice minister. All contracts and reports from licensed “documenters” will be binding and irrevocable. According to the regulations, “documenters” may not be involved in personal work for their families, wives and relatives. They may also refuse to draw up any documents, but have to provide reasons for doing so. If a customer wants to complain, he or she can file a grievance with the Justice Ministry. Applications for licenses to operate will have to be approved by a three-person committee under the jurisdiction of the minister of justice. The committee is to be chaired by a chief notary public with the other two members acting as legal advisers. The regulations allow membership for four years, renewable once. The new regulations specify that a “documenter” must assume duty within 180 days from the date of the issuance of the license, otherwise it will be revoked. The regulation also recommends that “documenters” should have well-equipped offices. If a “documenter” is accused of any wrongdoing, he could face a disciplinary hearing.
