NOTARY PUBLIC, ENGLAND AND WALES
GETTING READY: Each case is different but usually the Notary will expect an appointment, evidence of identity (Passport & utility bill), and proof that you understand the document.
WHAT DOES IT COST? Fees per notarial act start at £100 (excluding hourly rate of £300/hour). Third-party fees (Embassies/Foreign Office) may apply.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE? Straightforward cases take minimum 15-20 minutes. Legalisation takes several days.
These notes are intended to help you understand the work that the Notary Public has to do. They are not exhaustive, and not every point covered will apply in every case.
A Notary is a qualified lawyer, appointed by the Archbishop of Canterbury and regulated by the Court of Faculties. We must be fully insured and comply with stringent rules of practice.
The international duty of a Notary involves a high standard of care towards you and anyone relying on the document. My overriding duty is "to the transaction".
The Notary should normally witness your signature. Please do not sign the document in advance of your appointment.
It saves time if you send photocopies of the documents to be notarised and your ID before the appointment.
Original ID required: Passport, or new photo driving licence. If neither available, utility bills or old-style licences may be accepted.
If your name has changed or is spelled differently, provide Birth/Marriage certificates, Divorce Decrees, or Deed Polls.
Notarisation is a link in the chain of evidence under international law. The signature and seal are recognized globally.
Careful examination is required to check whether documents and ID are original, genuine, and unaltered.
Each document must be fully completed. Please do not mark the document until I have seen it.
I advise on the formalities of completion, but not on the transaction itself.
If the document is in a language you don't understand, a professional translation may be required.
If there is a language difficulty, a competent interpreter may be required at the interview.
Required for corporate bodies: ID of signatory, letterhead, and Letter of Authority/Minute/Resolution.
Minimum fee is normally £100. Charges are based on time spent, complexity, or fixed fees for simple witnessing.
If dissatisfied, contact me first. Unresolved matters can be referred to The Notaries Society or the Legal Ombudsman.
I am required to keep a formal register as a permanent record of all work carried out.
"I hope that these notes are of help to you in understanding what is expected of each of us."