Which of the following was NOT a historical role of notaries in the Roman Empire?

• A. Scriba
• B. Tabularii
• C. Advocati
• D. Notarii

Answer: (C)

Notaries in the Roman Empire were primarily documentary specialists who drafted, copied, and authenticated legal instruments—contracts, wills, official records, and similar acts. They served to ensure the acts’ form and legitimacy, often working closely with witnesses and officials. Other scribal roles like scribae (scribes) and tabellarii (secretaries) were also centered on writing and handling documents in official contexts, which fits into the same documentary function. Advocati, however, were the courtroom lawyers who argued cases and offered legal advice. That advocacy work is a different professional track from drafting and authenticating instruments. So, the role that does not fit a notary’s historical function is the one focused on pleading in court.