Key Takeaways
- Louisiana-admitted attorneys have automatic statewide notary jurisdiction
- Attorneys are exempt from the notary exam requirement
- Attorneys are exempt from the bond requirement
- Commission is still issued for parish of residence
- Attorneys must still file oaths and signature page
Attorney-Notaries in Louisiana
Louisiana-admitted attorneys enjoy special privileges in the notary system, reflecting the overlap between legal practice and civil law notarial functions.
Attorney Exemptions
| Requirement | Standard Notary | Attorney-Notary |
|---|---|---|
| State Exam | Required | Exempt |
| Surety Bond | Required | Exempt |
| Pre-Assessment | Required | Exempt |
| Application to Qualify | Required | Required |
| Oaths of Office | Required | Required |
| Signature Page | Required | Required |
Automatic Statewide Jurisdiction
Although attorney-notaries receive their commission for their parish of residence, they have automatic statewide jurisdiction throughout Louisiana.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Commission Parish | Parish of residence |
| Jurisdiction | Statewide |
| No Additional Steps | Automatic upon commissioning |
| Reciprocal Parishes | Not applicable (statewide) |
Why Attorneys Are Exempt
Louisiana's civil law system gives notaries powers that overlap with legal practice:
| Power | Standard Notary | Attorney |
|---|---|---|
| Prepare legal documents | Yes (unique to LA) | Yes |
| Draft contracts | Yes (unique to LA) | Yes |
| Legal advice | No | Yes |
| Court representation | No | Yes |
Since attorneys already have legal training and bar admission, the state considers the exam redundant for them.
Attorney-Notary Application Process
- Submit Application to Qualify ($35)
- Provide proof of Louisiana Bar admission
- File two Oaths of Office
- File Official Signature Page
- Pay Commissioning Fee ($35)
No bond or exam required.
Commission Duration
Like all Louisiana notaries, attorney-notaries receive a lifetime commission (unless revoked for misconduct).
Practicing in Multiple Roles
Attorney-notaries must be clear about which capacity they are acting in:
| Acting As | Can Do |
|---|---|
| Attorney | Provide legal advice, represent clients |
| Notary | Execute notarial acts, prepare documents |
| Both | Must clearly distinguish roles |
On the Exam
- Attorney exemptions: Exam and bond
- Jurisdiction: Statewide automatic
- Commission: Still parish-based
- Requirements: Still need oaths and signature page
Which of the following must a Louisiana-admitted attorney still complete to become a notary?
An attorney-notary in Louisiana has: