What is a notary public?
A notary public is a qualified lawyer appointed by the Faculty Office in England and Wales to certify and authenticate legal documents, such as powers of attorney, for use overseas. The process involves verifying identities and attesting the authenticity of the document to a high standard, using an individual unique seal to make the document acceptable to foreign jurisdictions.
Instructing Angela White Notary Public
It is always best to check with the instructing party as to whether you actually need a notary, you wouldn’t want to incur extra costs, but you do need a notary then I will talk you through the process.
What to provide before your appointment
Apart from documents where I will merely certifying your signature, it will be helpful to see a copy of the document so that I can ensure that there isn’t anything further that is needed, particularly to comply with the laws of England & Wales.
What to bring to your appointment
1) I will require two forms of identification to prove your identity as required by my regulator. I will need at least one original photo identity document such as:
Passport (preferred)
UK driving licence
Driving Licence
Biometric Residence Card
I will check your photo ID with my UV light to ensure that you have the necessary holograms consistent with the type of identify document.
2) I will also need your proof of address issued within the last three months such as:
Bank statement
Council tax bill
Utility bill
Mortgage statement
Your proof of address can be a digital or printed copy, the original is not required.
Who can attend the appointment
Anyone who will be signing the document must be present at the appointment. This includes all signatories, where the identity of all signatories has to be validated using the above method. If a signatory is permitted to sign on behalf of other parties, e.g one/two company directors, I will require sight of the articles and board resolution permitting the signatories to sign on behalf of the other directors or the company.
What to expect at your appointment
We will be looking forward to meeting with you at the office or I can attend your home/place of business at my usual hourly travel rate of £100+VAT.
Once I am satisfied as to your identity, I will talk you through what we will need to do in line with your requesting party’s instructions, I will answer any questions that you have and make the process as relaxed as possible.
Your document may also need an apostille/consular legislation and I can advise you further if necessary.