Managers under the spotlight - Alexandru Doroș, Societatea Profesională Notarială Doroș - Golban - Curuti

What unique challenges do you face in providing notarial services across various legal sectors, such as property law, inheritance, and corporate legal affairs?

There are quite a few unique challenges to overcome daily as a public notary. For example, one of the main challenges is staying up-to-date with the latest legal changes, since different branches of law are all deeply interconnected—e.g., fiscal law and company law; real estate law and fiscal law; inheritance law and company law. Each branch of law has its own particular complexities, and jumping from one to another, depending on the issues people face, can be quite difficult. This is especially true when you are a public servant who is open to the general public, often without prior appointment.

Your practice is known for its client-centered approach and commitment to excellence. Can you elaborate on how this philosophy shapes your firm's operations and client relationships?

Our legal practice is always tailor-made, shaped around the specific needs of each individual seeking legal guidance. Our philosophy is to provide legal certainty and clarity in all matters we handle, ensuring that our clients do not have to revisit us for the same issue. As a client-centered practice, our legal advice bridges the gap between business and personal matters. For instance, we assist in setting up inheritance plans related to a family-owned company, if requested. With this approach, it’s not uncommon for us to offer intergenerational notarial services, with younger generations seeking our services just as their elders did. These situations are highly rewarding, as they confirm that we are doing a good job and motivate us to continue in the same manner.

What are your long-term strategic goals for your firm, particularly in adapting to technological advancements or changes in the legal landscape?

There is no doubt that we are currently experiencing a technological revolution, and as notaries, we are constantly thinking of ways to integrate technology into our daily business model. The growing use of AI across various fields will inevitably impact our legal domain as well. Smart contracts, digital signatures, and online authentication are areas we are working on implementing safely into our notarial routine, ahead of time, so that we are ready when such procedures are allowed by notarial legislation.

The most important long-term strategic goal in the notarial sector is to expand the client base. A key principle in achieving this goal is to follow up, follow through, and provide continued support to your clients. Satisfied clients are more likely to share their positive experiences, which can help grow the business. The continuous implementation of this principle will be greatly simplified by AI.

Another long-term strategic goal is to maintain top positions in complex legal areas where our expertise remains unmatched, such as private international law and agricultural real estate law.

The legal profession is highly competitive. How does your firm attract and retain top talent while maintaining its reputation for high-quality notarial services?

Yes, this legal profession is highly competitive, but by consistently maintaining high standards in everything we do, we ensure that we stay at the top. In the notarial sector, the main focus is on the public notary, as they are entrusted with public trust. However, the team of employees handling administrative duties should not be overlooked, as they form the backbone of the business. Finding qualified administrative staff can be challenging, but top talent can be attracted through fair wages, a friendly and respectful environment, and continuous recognition of their hard work.

Can you describe a typical business day for you as the main partner of Societatea Profesională Notarială Doros Golban Curuti, and what key tasks define your role?

A typical day at the office starts with a bit of chit-chat with the other partners and our staff. However, this short but enjoyable routine quickly transitions into checking emails and reviewing documents before the first clients arrive for their appointments. After several signings, around 2:00 PM, it’s time for a quick lunch, followed by more signings in the afternoon. Between appointments, there are also many phone calls to ensure that all legal aspects of upcoming meetings are well-prepared and confirmed. While most signings take place at our notary office, many also occur at various banks or the headquarters of real estate developers. The day usually ends around 5:00 PM, as I prioritize maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Outside of your professional commitments, what are your personal passions or hobbies?

Relaxation is crucial for people with stressful jobs, and most legal professions, including notarial work, are no exception. My personal passions include reading, traveling, and skiing. I also enjoy spending quality time with loved ones and friends. As for hobbies, I’m passionate about swimming and cycling.

If you could share one piece of advice with your peers in the legal and business community, particularly in the field of public notary services, what would it be?

Never postpone visiting your notary for personal legal matters. Set your priorities and remember that it’s never too early to plan your company’s succession or to draft your will. Also, keep in mind that the last person you should exercise your scarcity on is your notary, especially when it comes to fees.