(1) Where a notary dies or becomes for any reason unable to perform the duties of his or her office, and leaves any notarial work commenced but not completed, such work may be continued and completed by any other notary approved by the judge, in the same manner as it might have been continued and completed by such first-mentioned notary.
(2) The provisions of this part shall apply only if the notary is not in a partnership with any other notary in which case all notarial deeds shall become the property of the Firm.