People often wonder whether they can simply contact their regular solicitor to confirm the validity of documents if they need to use them abroad. The answer is no, unless they are also a Notary Public. The Notary Public is a different profession and has a regulatory body which is separate from the Law Society.
The notary’s main role in England and Wales is defined as “attesting to the authenticity” of legal documents or deeds for use abroad.
There are quite a few occasions when you will need to engage with a notary public and here we look at a few of them.
Power of Attorney
If you find you need a power of attorney to use in a foreign jurisdiction, the document will have to be notarised. This may be needed if you are inheriting from an individual who is resident abroad, you are dealing with property overseas, or you have assets in a foreign state and you want to appoint an administrator. If you need notary services London, search online for firms who provide these services, such as Bridge Law Solicitors.
Certification of a Degree Certificate
If you are looking to study or work abroad, institutions, governments and professional bodies may require your qualification certificates to be authenticated. A notary public can do this, confirming the veracity of the documents you are presenting.
ID Certification
Whether you are travelling to another country on business or in a personal capacity, you may need your ID to be checked by a notary. He or she will confirm it to be a true copy of the original.
Signing documents from another jurisdiction
When you are signing a document from another country, it is strongly advised that you do so in front of a notary and get them to witness the signing. Some of the documents which might require this service include those which affect pension funds, for example when you are releasing funds, or a document affecting any potential inheritance. Documents relating to family matters in different jurisdictions may need the skills of the notary.
