FAQs

What are the fees likely to be?

We will be happy to provide an estimate of the likely fees including the cost of legalisation if necessary on a case-to-case basis. Even the most apparently simple of documents will require an appointment of at least 20 minutes to ensure that the notary has complied with the identification requirements under the Money Laundering Regulations, and most importantly so that the notary can establish that the appearer, whether an individual or a company, has fully understood what they are doing by signing the document. In some cases we may need to obtain a translation of a document if the original is written in a language with which the notary is unfamiliar. In these cases we will advise of this requirement in advance and inform you of the costs of obtaining the translation before doing so.

What proof of identification is needed?

All individuals will need to produce proof of their identity in the form of a current valid passport together with such additional documentation as may be required by the notary as he thinks fit. At least two items demonstrating the appearer’s current address will be required such as recent utility bills, council tax bills, bank statements or other official documentation. The notary may request to inspect certificates of birth, baptism, marriage, divorce, deed poll on change of name, or statutory declarations. Where the client is a company, searches will have to be carried out and various documents will need to be inspected by the notary. We can advise on the documentation required on a case-to-case basis and the cost of any searches or copy documents obtained in connection with  a particular matter will be borne by the client.

What are the notary’s responsibilities?

Notarial acts require a high standard of care as the documents once signed by the notary are likely to be relied upon by not only the clients but also third parties, foreign governments and official bodies. The Notary has a responsibility to make sure that the document is genuine and is not the object of fraud or forgery. Inevitably this means that some time has to be taken to study the document being signed which is reflected in our costs and only in the case of documents prepared by this firm do we accept any responsibility for the contents of any documents signed at our offices. We cannot advise on the transactions behind a document presented for notarisation save where we are acting for the client in that matter.

Can I just turn up with my document for witnessing?

No. We only attend on clients by prior appointment. Please telephone us to arrange an appointment and be prepared to provide us with a copy of the document in advance (where convenient) and details of the country where the document is to be used together with details of the timescale in which the document is required.

We will advise you on whether the document will need to be legalised in addition to being signed before the notary – please bear in mind that our standard legalisation service is likely to take several working days. For urgent matters special arrangements can be made.

Do I have to attend in person?

Personal attendance is required and we offer appointments during normal office hours. In the case of people who cannot attend at our offices (e.g. due to ill health), and for corporate clients, arrangements can be made for the notary to visit you. Unfortunately, in these cases travelling costs and travelling time will be charged to the client.

Looking for more information or assistance with notarial services?

Contact us on 01243 511222 or click the button below to send an email


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