Difference Between Cotejo and Compulsa of Documents Before a Notary
The terms "compulsa" and "cotejo" are commonly used as synonyms, but in the notarial field, they have distinct nuances. Knowing the difference can help you avoid problems when you need to present official documentation.What is Notarial Cotejo?
Notarial cotejo is the process by which the notary compares a copy with the original document and certifies that they are identical. The notary prepares a record of that comparison, providing public faith that the copy faithfully reflects the original. This record has full probative value.What is Notarial Compulsa?
Notarial compulsa is, in the strict sense, the result of the cotejo: the copy that bears the notarial seal certifying that it has been compared with the original. In everyday and legal language, "compulsa" and "cotejo" are used interchangeably to refer to both things.Comparative Table: Cotejo vs. Compulsa
| Aspect | Cotejo | Compulsa |
|---|---|---|
| What is it? | The act of comparing the copy and the original | The document resulting from that act |
| Who performs it? | The notary in their protocol | The notary (or official in an administrative setting) |
| Validity | Universal (also abroad) | Universal if notarial; limited if administrative |
| Requires original | Yes, for comparison | Yes, at the time of the cotejo |
When Do I Need Cotejo and When Compulsa?
In practice, when an administration, court, or company asks you for a "compulsada copy", what they are seeking is for a notary to have certified that the copy matches the original. In other words, you need to go through the cotejo process to obtain the compulsa. In these cases, you will need a notarial compulsa (not administrative):- When the procedure is carried out before a foreign authority or with international effects.
- When the receiving body expressly rejects the administrative compulsa.
- In judicial processes or those of high legal importance where maximum guarantee of authenticity is required.