JPs and oaths to affidavits

Dear Editor,

A Justice of the Peace who is not a Commissioner of Oaths cannot sign affidavits

About two years ago you kindly printed an article on the above subject.

My activism in communities along the East Coast of Demerara has reminded me that many institutions in Guyana: Commercial Banks, NDCs, National Insurance Scheme, GRO, etc. – in fact, almost every office in this land – simply do not train their staff in what documents lack legal status if not properly endorsed.

For the benefit of the public and these errant institutions, the term: Commissioner of  Oaths to Affidavits allows the person so designated to administer oaths to affidavits. A Justice of the Peace, not designated a Commissioner of Oaths, cannot administer such an oath.

Further, a Justice of the Peace (only) is in breach of the law for appending his signature pretending to be a Commissioner of Oaths to Affidavits.

It would be a service to the public if you can carry the above.

Yours faithfully,

Charles Selman