Judicial Clerks Prepare for Transition to Notary Role in Morocco
As Morocco approaches the implementation of the new law No. 51.26, which governs the notary profession, set to take effect in November, the judicial clerks of the country are intensifying their preparations for their final integration into this profession. This transition marks a significant milestone for the clerks, as they undergo a transformation that aligns with the new legal framework aimed at modernizing the notary sector.
The clerks are currently engaged in a comprehensive training program organized by the Directorate of Civil Affairs and Legal and Judicial Professions at the Ministry of Justice. This training is taking place in various cities, including Sale (home to the National Institute of Judicial Writing and Legal Professions), Marrakech, and Fez. The program consists of two phases, accommodating six groups with two groups in each location, and aims to equip the clerks with essential knowledge about the latest legal developments relevant to the notary profession.
Specifically, the training focuses on familiarizing participants with the digitization of legal documents, the notary platform, and the national electronic reference for legal and judicial professions. Additionally, it covers professional communication and the ethics of the profession, ensuring that the clerks are well-prepared for their new roles.
Moreover, the clerks slated for integration are required to complete a mandatory three-month internship within a notary office. Following this internship, they will be appointed as notaries in the appellate court jurisdictions where they previously served as clerks. This step is crucial in ensuring that they are adequately prepared to meet the demands of their new responsibilities.
However, concerns have been raised regarding the actual support that the clerks will receive during this transition. Many are apprehensive about the challenges of establishing a notary office, especially given that the new law imposes specific conditions and standards for opening such offices. In a meeting held at the end of August, Abdul Latif Wahbi, the Minister of Justice, discussed the integration process with representatives of the national union of judicial clerks, promising to assist them in overcoming the obstacles ahead.
According to union data, approximately 383 clerks are expected to join the notary profession, following the previous appointment of 187 others as judicial representatives. During the aforementioned meeting, union members proposed the creation of a special fund to support clerks socially, ensuring they are not adversely affected by living costs or unable to meet their financial obligations.
The new law governing the notary profession is anticipated to come into effect in the second week of November, following its publication in the official gazette on August 10, 2026.
As reported by hespress.com.
