Services
Services for Individuals
Notarial services are often essential for individuals dealing with foreign authorities, institutions, or legal systems. Below are the key services a Notary Public typically provides to private clients:
1. Certifying Identity and Signatures
One of the most common tasks is the verification of identity and witnessing of signatures. This ensures the document was genuinely signed by the person it claims to be from, and that their identity was properly checked.
Common documents requiring this service include:
- Powers of attorney for use abroad
- Affidavits and statutory declarations
- Consent letters for minors travelling overseas
- Documents relating to foreign property sales or purchases
2. Notarising Powers of Attorney
If you're authorising someone to act on your behalf in another country—perhaps to sell property, manage a bank account, or sign legal documents—you'll need a power of attorney notarised.
The notary will:
- Ensure you understand the document
- Verify your identity
- Witness your signature
- Attach a notarial certificate confirming the above
3. Certifying Copies of Original Documents
Foreign embassies, banks, and universities often require certified copies of original documents. A Notary Public can provide certified copies that meet international standards.
Documents commonly certified include:
- Birth, marriage, and death certificates
- Passports and ID documents
- Academic qualifications and transcripts
- Utility bills and bank statements (for proof of address)
4. Statutory Declarations and Affidavits for Use Abroad
You may be required to swear or affirm a legal statement—known as a statutory declaration or affidavit—for use in a foreign jurisdiction. A Notary Public can administer oaths or affirmations and provide the necessary notarial certificate.
Examples include:
- Affidavits for overseas divorce proceedings
- Statutory declarations for visa or residency applications
- Statements of marital status
5. Certifying Translations
If a document is required in another language, a Notary Public can:
- Certify the accuracy of a professional translation
- Confirm that a translated document corresponds with the original
- In some cases, the notary may work with a sworn translator or refer you to one
This is especially useful for immigration applications, international litigation, and academic use.
6. Documents for Marriage Abroad
When marrying overseas, you may need to provide notarised proof of single status, birth certificates, or parental consent (for underage applicants). A Notary Public can help with all necessary certifications and, if required, assist with legalisation or apostille services.
7. Overseas Inheritance and Probate
If you're named as a beneficiary or executor in a will involving overseas assets, or you're dealing with an international probate matter, a Notary Public can:
- Certify documents related to the estate
- Notarise declarations of heirship
- Assist with the legalisation of documents for use abroad
Services for Businesses
Businesses regularly require notarial services to facilitate international trade, establish overseas operations, or comply with foreign legal systems. A Notary Public plays a vital role in making business documents legally acceptable outside the UK.
1. Notarisation of Company Documents
If your company is doing business abroad, foreign governments and organisations often require officially notarised documentation.
Common documents include:
- Certificates of Incorporation
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Board resolutions
- Powers of attorney executed on behalf of the company
- Certificates of Good Standing/Summary of Information
2. Authenticating Signatures of Company Directors
When directors sign contracts, powers of attorney, or resolutions for use overseas, a Notary Public can verify their identity and authority to act on behalf of the company. This protects against fraud and confirms legal capacity.
3. Cross-Border Commercial Contracts
Companies engaging in international trade may need notarised documents to meet the requirements of foreign regulators or business partners. These can include:
- Agency and distribution agreements
- Joint venture contracts
- Shareholder agreements
- Licensing agreements
The notary ensures the document is correctly executed and legally compliant.
4. Intellectual Property and Trademark Documentation
Filing for patents, trademarks, or other IP protections abroad often requires notarised authorisations or supporting declarations. A Notary Public ensures these documents are appropriately verified and ready for submission to international IP offices.
5. Company Verification and Due Diligence
When your company is entering into overseas transactions or forming subsidiaries, you may be asked to provide notarised verification of your corporate structure, ownership, and legal status. A Notary Public can compile and notarise a set of certified company documents suitable for international submission.
Additional Services
Many Notaries Public also provide complementary services that support their core role, such as:
1. Legalisation and Apostille Services
Often, notarisation alone is not sufficient. The destination country may require further certification through:
- Apostille - for countries that are part of the Hague Convention
- Consular Legalisation - for countries not part of the Hague Convention
A Notary Public can arrange these legalisation steps on your behalf, ensuring your documents are valid and accepted internationally.
2. Mobile and Remote Notarial Services
I offer:
- Mobile services: attending your home or office
- Remote services: in cases where documents can be notarised using video conferencing, subject to legal constraints and jurisdictional requirements
This flexibility is particularly useful for urgent or high-volume business matters.
3. Drafting Services
While notaries primarily certify and authenticate documents, some also assist in drafting simple legal documents, especially if they are to be used abroad. This can include:
- Declarations of single status
- Letters of authority
Note: For complex drafting, you may still need a solicitor. Generally, for a Power of Attorney, the document needs to be prepared by a lawyer in the jurisdiction where it is to be used, to ensure that it complies with the law of that jurisdiction.
