What do I bring to our appointment?
You will need proof of your identity (for example, your passport or driving licence) and confirmation of your address (for example a utility bill or council tax statement provided that it is not more than three months old.
You will also need to provide me with the document that needs to be notarised together with any instructions from the receiving jurisdiction, which should be emailed to me before our meeting at notarysouthwest@outlook.com.
How long will it take?
Most of my work will be undertaken before our meeting once you have approved my fees and terms of business. This may include liaising with lawyers and agents in overseas jurisdictions; authenticating facts and documents; amending the documents or preparing a notarial certificate. The meeting itself will take around 30 minutes.
If a document needs the apostille, this usually takes three to five working days for the document to be returned to you at a UK address or securely couriered out to the foreign jurisdiction.
If the document needs further embassy legalisation, this can take up to six weeks, but much is dependent on the relevant embassy or high commission.
How quickly can I see you?
I recognise that most notarial jobs are often urgent. Subject to availability, I can offer same or next day appointments at my offices during normal office hours. I can also offer appointments outside these times at your home or business premises.
Do I need to sign in the presence of a notary?
It is usually the case that I will meet you so that I can identify you by production of your identity documents and witness your signature before the document is then notarised. Indeed, the law of England and Wales or the applicable foreign law may require the document to be executed in the presence of a notary for it to be formally valid in overseas jurisdictions. This is typically the case with affidavits; powers of attorney and statutory declarations.
I need my documents translated. Can you help?
I am happy to put you in touch with certified translators, if required. Please email me at notarysouthwest@outlook.com.
