Russian notaries

Russian notaries have begun refusing to process powers of attorney for men facing military conscription, according to reporting by Vazhnye Istorii. The refusal to formalize documents that would let relatives act on a conscript's behalf is being read as a barrier to men managing affairs before mobilization or service, and has drawn concern on Russian social media.

Human rights groups report that notaries in Russia have begun refusing to certify powers of attorney for men of mobilisation age. The practice could prevent men from granting legal authority to relatives to act on their behalf, including in matters related to leaving the country or managing affairs if they are drafted. Rights advocates say the refusals add to mounting legal obstacles facing draft-age men since the invasion of Ukraine.