Each register shall appoint a deputy register of deeds subject to the requirements of Title 30‑A, section 501; the deputy register shall be sworn. He shall give bond to the county for the faithful discharge of his duties in such sum as the county commissioners order and with such sureties as they approve in writing thereon. The premium of the bond shall be met by the county. The deputy register shall receive an annual salary as established by the register and approved by the county commissioners. In case of sickness, absence or any temporary disability of the register, such deputy shall make and sign for him all certificates and make all entries and minutes required to be signed or made by the register. Such certificates, entries and minutes shall be as valid as if made by the register.   [PL 1987, c. 737, Pt. C, §§75, 106 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 6 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 9, §2 (AMD); PL 1989, c. 104, Pt. C, §8, 10 (AMD).]

In case of vacancy in the office of register, in any county or registry district, the deputy register then holding such office pursuant to this section shall assume the title of acting register, be sworn as such by a dedimus justice and thereafter perform all duties and services required of a register of deeds during such vacancy, complete all unfinished business, receive the same compensation and be subject to the same liabilities as a register of deeds and his certificate shall have the same effect as if made by the register.   [PL 1975, c. 445, §2 (NEW).]