Decentralized Notarial Record-Keeping: Foundations, Innovation, and Challenges

Decentralized notarial record-keeping represents a technological evolution in the notarization process through blockchain implementation. This research examines the transformation from traditional notarial practices to digital solutions, analyzing the integration of blockchain, cryptographic principles, and smart contracts in modern notarization. The study evaluates Remote Online Notarization (RON), electronic notarization methods, and their impact on accessibility and efficiency. Through comparative analysis of implementations across jurisdictions, particularly in the EU and US, the research addresses key challenges in regulatory compliance, system architecture, and legal frameworks. The investigation encompasses the technical infrastructure requirements for decentralized systems, interoperability concerns, and security measures necessary for digital identity verification. The findings highlight the critical balance between technological innovation and regulatory oversight, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols and international cooperation frameworks. As decentralized notarial systems continue to evolve, this research provides insights into their potential impact on legal practices and identifies areas requiring further development in both technical implementation and regulatory governance.