Claire Grylls
Gravesend Notary Public

What can a Notary Public do?

A Notary is able to draft, attest, certify and authenticate documents under their notarial seal anywhere in the world.

A Notary’s seal ensures that the document will be accepted within the UK and in another country.

A Notary is also able to exercise their powers as a Commissioner for Oaths.

What is required of a Notary?

A Notary is required to:

• Satisfy themselves as to the identify of each client.
• Ensure the client has capacity and authority to enter the proposed transaction.
• Check that the client understands the document they will be bound by.

A Notary is required to keep copies of all documents requiring their involvement. A record is also required to be kept of each transaction. Such documents must be made available to anyone with a right to see them, such as the client, or another party to the transaction.

Foreign languages 

If a Notary is required to deal with a document in a foreign language, they must satisfy themselves that both they and the client understand the meaning and effect the document will have.

A Notary will not advise on the meaning or effect of the document or the transaction of which it forms part, but does need to make sure that the client understands the document they are signing. A client will therefore need to provide to the notary at the appointment copies of correspondence or advice that they have received which will be copied for the Notary’s records.

Independence and rules

A Notary is an independent officer whose work is carried out independently of Stantons. A Notary should not act in matters where they have a personal interest and are subject to professional rules to protect their clients. Notaries are bound to follow the rules on the prevention of money laundering.

A Notary must act impartially and although they are able to act for both parties in a contract, they must identify any potential conflicts of interest and try to resolve them if possible.

Legalisation

Some documents may require legalisation or for an apostille to be attached by the Foreign Commonwealth Office, a consulate or embassy after they have been notarised. We can also take care of this for you.

Legalisation is required by some countries to check that the Notary who has verified the document is genuine and recognised as a notary. The Notary’s signature and seal will be checked against the records held to ensure they match.

Fees

The cost of notarial services will depend on the volume and type of documents that need notarising. The hourly rate is £350 per hour plus VAT and the minimum charge for notarisation will be £275 plus VAT. We will happily provide a quotation after discussing your requirements.

Payment must be made by bank transfer no later than 24 hours before the appointment.