Notarisation is the process by which a notary public certifies the authenticity of a signature, document, or declaration. It typically includes verifying the identity of the person signing and ‘witnessing’ the signature. The notary public adds a certification, their signature, official seal, name, address and date.

There is very little difference between a solicitor and a notary public signing a document. They perform the same function, checking documents, adding a certification and signing the document.

In general, a solicitor can certify 99% of documents. This is widely accepted for use in the UK and overseas. However, there are some documents that specifically state ‘witnessed by a notary public’. In addition, a few authorities or countries may only accept certification by a notary public. However, this is unusual and solicitor certification is normally accepted without question.

If the person asking for your document specifically requests you use a notary public, then it is safer to use a notary to avoid a document being rejected.

Documents often requiring notarisation include powers of attorney, affidavits, statutory declarations, and some property paperwork for use abroad. Typically, documents where you need to sign the paperwork in the presence of a witness (the notary).

No. A notary public is a separate legal qualification in the UK. While many notaries are also solicitors, only those registered as notaries can carry out notarial acts or ‘notarisation’ of documents.

The notary checks your identity, ensures you understand the document, confirms you’re signing willingly, and applies their official seal and signature.

Yes, notarisation is not a walk-in service as the notary public will have other appointments or work to complete. You will need to book an appointment and bring valid ID and any relevant documents. if you are using our notary service, the notary public will contact you to arrange an online appointment.

No. Notarisation is the first step of certifying or witnessing a document. Legalisation (apostille or embassy attestation) may be required afterwards to confirm the notary’s authority for use abroad. if your document is being presented outside of the UK, it will most likely need an apostille after the notarisation has been done.

Some notaries can draft or advise on documents, particularly if they are also qualified solicitors. However, in most cases you should bring the document ready to be notarised. If a notary or solicitor needs to prepare documents for you, they will charge more fees.

The appointment itself usually takes 15-30 minutes, but more time may be needed for complex documents or where documents also need to be prepared by the notary. It can save time if you prepare the documents in advance of the appointment (e.g. statutory declarations, affidavits).

Often, yes. If the document is being sent outside of the UK to a country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, the notarised document will usually need to be apostilled by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), or you can use an apostille service, like us, to expedite the process.

Yes, some notaries, including the ones we use, allow documents to be notarised via online meetings. They will require identification to be provided in advance, and conduct background checks on the individual signing the document. Documents can then be signed and witnessed remotely and posted to the notary for signing. Many notaries still insist on face-to-face meetings.