A Notary Public, also known as a ‘Public Notary’ or simply ‘Notary,’ is a qualified legal professional from one of the oldest branches of the legal profession in England & Wales. They are public officers appointed by law to assist with non-contentious matters.

In London or anywhere in England & Wales, a Notary serves as a bridge between the English legal system and foreign legal systems, ensuring your documents are valid for use abroad.

A Notary’s primary responsibility is to verify and authenticate legal documents for international use. This involves confirming the identity, capacity, and authority of the person signing the document. Once satisfied, the Notary affixes their personal notarial seal or certificate, unique to each individual notary, to the document.

Unlike Solicitors and Barristers who represent clients, a Notary’s duty is to the document itself, ensuring high standards of care that are relied upon by third parties, such as foreign officials. A Notary may draft or witness the signing of documents, verify their contents, administer oaths, and certify the authenticity of documents, such as passports or utility bills.