Who appoints Notaries Public in Ireland?

Notaries Public in Ireland are appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. This is the highest judicial authority in the State. The appointment is for life, and the Chief Justice must be satisfied that there is a need for a Notary Public in the applicant's area and that the applicant meets the required qualifications.

Why does the Chief Justice appoint notaries?

The appointment by the Chief Justice ensures that the notarial profession is subject to the highest level of judicial oversight. It reflects the importance and gravity of the Notary Public's role — their seal and signature are relied upon by authorities worldwide. Having the appointment made by the Chief Justice gives Irish notarial acts significant legal weight and credibility.

How long does a notary public appointment last?

A Notary Public appointment in Ireland is for life. Unlike some other jurisdictions where notaries are appointed for fixed terms, an Irish Notary Public holds their commission permanently unless they resign, are removed for misconduct, or pass away. This lifelong appointment underscores the seriousness with which the role is treated.

The Chief Justice's Role in Appointing Notaries Public

One of the most distinctive features of the Irish notary public system is that Notaries Public are appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court — the most senior judge in the State. This is not merely a ceremonial formality; it reflects the importance of the notarial role and has practical implications for the legal weight and international recognition of notarised documents. This article explains the Chief Justice's role in the appointment process and why it matters.

The Appointment Authority

In Ireland, the power to appoint Notaries Public rests with the Chief Justice of Ireland, who is the president of the Supreme Court and the most senior member of the judiciary. This appointment power has historical roots in the courts' inherent jurisdiction and is one of the most prestigious judicial appointments available in the Irish legal system.

The appointment is made by way of a Faculty — a formal grant of authority — issued by the Chief Justice. This Faculty authorises the named person to act as a Notary Public throughout the State.

The Appointment Process

Becoming a Notary Public in Ireland involves several steps:

Qualifications: The candidate must be a qualified solicitor or barrister and must have completed the Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice from the Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland
Demonstrated need: The candidate must show that there is a genuine need for a Notary Public in their area — the Chief Justice will not appoint a notary where there is no demonstrated demand
Character and standing: The candidate must demonstrate good character and professional standing
Petition to the Chief Justice: A formal petition is made to the Chief Justice, supported by evidence of qualifications, need, and character
Grant of Faculty: If the Chief Justice is satisfied, they issue a Faculty appointing the person as a Notary Public

Why This Matters

The appointment by the Chief Justice has several important implications:

Quality Control

Because the Chief Justice must personally approve each appointment and is required to be satisfied as to need, qualifications, and character, there is a rigorous quality control mechanism built into the system. This ensures that only highly qualified and suitable professionals are appointed.

Limited Numbers

The need requirement means that the number of Notaries Public in Ireland is deliberately kept small — typically around 80–100 nationwide. This contrasts sharply with jurisdictions like the United States, where there are millions of notaries. The small number ensures high standards and prevents dilution of the profession.

Lifelong Appointment

The appointment is for life, reflecting the gravity with which the role is viewed. A Notary Public in Ireland does not need to renew their commission periodically — once appointed by the Chief Justice, they hold the office for as long as they practise.

International Credibility

When foreign authorities see that an Irish notary has been appointed by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, it carries significant weight. The appointment by the highest judicial authority in the State provides a level of credibility and trust that is recognised internationally.

Comparison with Other Jurisdictions

England and Wales: Notaries are appointed by the Court of Faculties of the Archbishop of Canterbury — a historical ecclesiastical authority
United States: Notaries are typically appointed by state government (Secretary of State or Governor) with minimal requirements
France and Germany: Notaries are appointed by the Minister of Justice and are public officers with extensive powers
Scotland: All solicitors can act as notaries — no separate appointment is needed

Ireland's system sits between the civil law and common law traditions, with the judicial appointment providing a unique combination of rigour and independence.

Hugh Phelan's Appointment

Hugh Phelan was appointed as a Notary Public by the Chief Justice of Ireland and holds his commission for life. Combined with his qualifications as a solicitor in both Ireland and England & Wales, his appointment provides clients with confidence that their documents will be prepared and authenticated to the highest standards.

Contact us at 021-489-7134 or info@phelansolicitors.com, or book an appointment online.