Accra: A groundbreaking book on Notaries Public Practice in Ghana, marking the first of its kind, has been launched in Accra. The comprehensive 1,500-page book serves as a guide for notaries to perform their roles within legal requirements. It was launched by Justice Richard Apietu, a High Court Judge, on behalf of Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, and contains cases, laws, and researched materials about notaries in Ghana.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Chief Justice, through a speech delivered by Justice Apietu, emphasized the need for the book, citing the growth of notarial practice within the jurisdiction and the necessity for providing legal tools to help notaries adhere to global standards. She highlighted the absence of such a contextualized guide in Ghana and expressed optimism about the book's potential impact on the administration of justice, the rule of law, and the development of the legal system in Ghana.
The book aims to assist notaries in delivering efficient, competent, and professional services, thereby promoting commerce, international trade, and transactions. It is designed to ensure the credibility and integrity of legal documentation and is expected to serve as a valuable resource for law students and professionals. The book covers various areas, including property law, conveyancing, wills, probate, and administration, among others.
Professor Philip Ebow Bondzi-Simpson, who reviewed the book, encouraged its patronage, noting its comprehensive coverage of the role and qualifications of a notary public and the institution's development over time. Meanwhile, Professor Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah, former CEO of the National Identification Authority, highlighted the book's role in aiding document identification and combating cross-border fraud.
The author, Mr. Daniel Yaw Abaidoo, a private legal practitioner, shared his motivation for writing the book, which began in February 2020. He aimed to provide guidance to notary public practitioners and other legal professionals, contributing to the development of notarial practice in Ghana. Mr. Abaidoo expressed gratitude to the Chief Justice for writing the foreword and shared that the first copy of the book was auctioned for GHC20,000.
The launch event was attended by notable figures, including Mr. Dan Kweku Botwe, former Member of Parliament of Okere, Mr. Stephen Asamoah-Boateng, former Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Barima Nana Yaw Kordie Oppong, Director of Ghana School of Law, members of the Ghana Bar Association, and the Clergy.