FAQs

You may have a few questions before getting started, so I have answered some of the most common ones below. If yours is not covered, please get in touch — I will be happy to help and provide a fixed-fee quote the same day.

What does a notary actually do?: It is almost always the case that you have been asked to see a notary because you have a document that needs to be used abroad. Seeing a notary is never a mere rubber-stamping exercise. The international duty of a Notary involves a high standard of care. This is not only towards the client but also to anyone who may rely on the document and to Governments or officials of other countries. These people are entitled to assume that a Notary will ensure full compliance with the relevant requirements both here and abroad; and to rely on the Notary’s register and records. Great care is essential at every stage to minimise the risks of errors, omissions, alterations, fraud, forgery, money laundering, the use of false identity, and so on.
What should I bring to the appointment?: Meetings at my office are by appointment only. Before an appointment is arranged, we will have been in contact and I will have received and reviewed the documents to be notarised, your letter of instruction, and the required identification documents.
When you come for your appointment, please make sure you bring your passport (or if not available, your driving licence) and proof of address (this could be a utility bill, credit card, bank statement or council tax bill; these should be no more than 3 months old).
You must also bring any additional identification specified in the documents you have been provided with, such as a foreign identity card. I may also require further evidence to verify your identity or personal details, for example a marriage certificate. If any additional documentation is required, I will let you know in advance.
Do I need an apostille or legalisation?: Legalisation is the process of formally verifying the authenticity of a notary’s signature and seal, or those of another recognised public official, so that a document can be accepted for use abroad.
The legalisation requirements depend on the country in which the document is to be used. In some cases, authentication by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) is sufficient, while in others, further legalisation by the relevant embassy or consulate of the destination country may also be required.
For documents to be used in countries that are parties to the Hague Convention of 5 October 1961, an apostille is generally sufficient and no further consular legalisation is required.
How much will it cost?: As the requirements for each notarial matter vary, the timescale and fees will depend on a number of factors, including the nature of the document, the transaction concerned and the country in which the document is to be used. Once I have reviewed the documents and details of your matter, I will confirm the applicable requirements, anticipated costs and expected timescale.
My quote will cover the entire process you require, including notarisation, apostille or legalisation, certified translation, and courier services, as applicable.
How long will it take?: The timeframe will depend on the document and the service required. If you require certification only, this can usually be completed on the day of your appointment.
If legalisation or an apostille is required, additional processing time will be needed. An urgent apostille generally takes 2–3 business days, while a non-urgent apostille can take around one month. An e-apostille usually takes 1–2 business days.
Consular legalisation generally takes 5–10 business days, although the timeframe will depend on the relevant embassy or consulate.
I will confirm the expected timescale for your particular documents when providing my quote.
Can you come to us?: Of course. I offer a mobile notary service where required. Where a notarial appointment takes place away from my office, an additional fee will apply to cover travelling time and expenses.