Regulated by the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Member of the Notaries Society.
What is a Notary Public and other FAQs
• What is a Notary Public?
A Notary is a lawyer (often also a solicitor) who is separately regulated by a professional body (www.facultyoffice.org.uk) and is required to hold professional indemnity insurance.
• Why do people need a Notary?
An individual or business with assets or interests abroad will probably need a Notary at some stage if any paperwork issued here is destined for another country. A Notary's signature and seal on a document are deemed to be convincing proof overseas of e.g. the proper execution of that document and/or of the truth of its contents.
• What will the Notary do?
A Notary will assist people to ensure that the document is signed in a manner that will be acceptable in the destination country and can therefore be relied on with confidence. This may entail making further enquiries if you are signing on behalf of a company or another person. The Notary may also provide a formal certificate e.g. confirming facts about a person or business or providing true copies of certificates, other documents etc.
• Which countries are dealt with?
A Notary can assist with documents destined for any country outside England and Wales. Increasingly, Notaries are also being asked to assist with documents required for the UK.
• What is legalisation?
Legalisation is a formal, independent process which confirms the signature and seal of the Notary – see legalisation for further information.
• What sort of documents need to be notarised?
All kinds of documents may need to be notarised for any business or personal purpose. For some examples see notarial services.
• How long will it take?
Most notarial work can usually be completed within 7 days (excluding the time needed for any legalisation) - often sooner if the matter is urgent.
• What is the procedure?
The usual procedure is as follows:
1. You send me your draft document by email or fax and/or give an idea of the kind of document you need and confirm which country it will be sent to;
2. I will confirm any other requirements e.g. whether a covering certificate is needed or extra witnesses, confirm my fee, discuss with you whether legalisation is needed and confirm any necessary disbursements e.g. legalisation fees, courier charges etc;
3. We arrange a convenient appointment - prior to which I finalise the document (if it is not already complete). It may be necessary for me to send it to your overseas adviser for approval if appropriate (e.g. if amendments are needed or you have not been provided with a full draft document);
4. We meet so that I can check your ID (passport and evidence of address) and witness you signing the document in my presence;
5. I arrange any necessary legalisation;
6. I return the document to you or alternatively send it overseas at your request – courier or special delivery charges may apply.
• How much will it cost?
My fee will take into account: the professional time spent; the complexity and urgency of the matter; the legalisation requirements; additional travel time etc. I quote competitive fixed fees for all work .