Why You Might Need a Notary Public: Common Situations
Many people only learn what a Notary Public does when they suddenly need one. Whether you are dealing with international paperwork, moving abroad, or completing a business transaction, a notary plays an essential role in ensuring your documents are legally valid overseas. At LM Notary Public, with offices in Dagenham, Canary Wharf and Stratford, we help clients every day who are unsure whether their documents require notarisation — and why. This guide explains the most common situations in which individuals and businesses need a Notary Public, so you can prepare with confidence. What Does a Notary Public Do? A Notary Public verifies and certifies: identities signatures documents copies of original documents This ensures your paperwork is legally recognised abroad. Many foreign authorities will not accept documents without notarisation. Depending on the country, your document may also need: Apostille certification (via FCDO) Embassy or Consulate legalisation LM Notary Public can assist with every step. Common Reasons Individuals Need a Notary Public 1. Studying or Working Abroad Universities and employers abroad often require notarised: degree certificates transcripts professional qualifications identity documents 2. Immigration, Citizenship and Visas Foreign authorities may require notarised copies of: passports birth certificates marriage certificates financial documents 3. Buying or Selling Property Overseas Property transactions abroad often require notarised: Powers of Attorney identity documents property sale/purchase agreements 4. Powers of Attorney for Use Abroad If someone is representing you overseas for legal or financial purposes, the Power of Attorney typically must be notarised. 5. Child Travel Consent Letters Many countries require notarised parental consent when a child travels with one parent or another adult. 6. Sworn Statements, Affidavits & Declarations When submitting statements or evidence abroad, many jurisdictions require sworn documents signed before a Notary Public. Common Reasons Businesses Need a Notary Public 1. Overseas Company Formation or Expansion Notarised company documents are often required, including: certificates of incorporation director identification board resolutions 2. International Business Contracts Many contracts abroad require notarised signatures of company directors. 3. Authenticating Corporate Documents Companies may need notarised: financial statements certificates of good standing commercial powers of attorney 4. Export and Trade Documents Some countries require notarised: certificates of origin commercial invoices shipping documents Do Your Documents Need an Apostille or Legalisation? Notarisation is often the first step — but not the last. Apostille Required for countries part of the Hague Apostille Convention. Issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). Embassy/Consulate Legalisation For countries outside the Hague Convention, an extra legalisation stage at the foreign embassy is required. LM Notary Public can handle these steps so your documents are accepted abroad without delays. Why Choose LM Notary Public Three convenient locations: Dagenham, Canary Wharf, Stratford Evening & weekend appointments at no extra cost Accurate and efficient document handling Multilingual service: English, Hindi, Malayalam (plus limited Tamil) Led by Lakshmy, Solicitor & Notary Public with extensive international legal experience We make the process simple, fast, and stress-free. Contact LM Notary Public If you need to notarise a document or want guidance on requirements for a specific country, our team is here to help. Locations: Dagenham | Docklands (near Canary Wharf) | Stratford Phone: 0207 101 5408 Email: info@lmnotarypublic.co.uk Website: https://lmnotarypublic.co.uk Trusted support for all your notarial and legal document needs.
Notarising Documents for Use Abroad: What You Need to Know
When you need to send important documents overseas — for work, education, travel, property or family reasons — they must often be notarised to be accepted by foreign authorities.At LM Notary Public, we specialise in helping clients across Dagenham, Canary Wharf and Stratford ensure their documents are legally recognised abroad — efficiently, professionally and with personal attention. What Does “Notarisation” Mean? Notarisation is the process by which a Notary Public formally certifies that a document, signature or identity is genuine and valid.Once a document is notarised, it can be presented to foreign authorities, companies or universities as a trusted, verified record. Depending on the country of use, the document may also need an Apostille or Embassy legalisation before it is considered fully valid overseas. Why You Might Need a Notary Public There are many reasons why individuals and companies require notarisation. Common situations include: Moving or working abroad and needing to verify identity documents Buying or selling property overseas Setting up or managing a company abroad Applying for dual citizenship or marriage abroad Sending a Power of Attorney for use in another country Submitting degree certificates or qualifications overseas International business contracts and agreements At LM Notary Public, we support both individual and corporate clients, ensuring every document meets the precise legal standards required in the destination country. Types of Documents That Can Be Notarised We assist with a wide range of documents, including but not limited to: Passports and identity verification Birth, marriage and death certificates Academic certificates and transcripts Powers of Attorney for overseas use Company and business documents Property deeds and sale contracts Affidavits, declarations and letters of consent Travel authorisations for minors If you’re unsure whether your document needs notarisation, our experienced notary can review your requirements and guide you through every step. Apostille and Legalisation – Understanding the Difference After a document has been notarised, some countries require additional legalisation steps to validate the notary’s signature. 1. Apostille An Apostille is a government-issued certificate that verifies the authenticity of a notary’s signature and seal.In the UK, Apostilles are issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).Countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention recognise this certification directly. 2. Embassy or Consulate Legalisation For countries outside the Hague Convention, documents need an additional step through the relevant Embassy or Consulate in London. At LM Notary Public, we can manage the entire process — from notarisation to Apostille and Embassy legalisation — so you don’t have to worry about navigating complex international requirements. Why Choose LM Notary Public Choosing the right notary is essential for accuracy, compliance and peace of mind. Here’s why clients across East London trust us: ✅ Professional expertise – Led by Lakshmy, Solicitor and Notary Public of England and Wales✅ Convenient locations – Dagenham, Docklands (near Canary Wharf), and Stratford✅ Flexible appointments – Evenings and weekends at no extra cost✅ Multilingual support – English, Hindi, Malayalam (and limited Tamil)✅ Experienced guidance – For individuals and corporate clients alike Every appointment is handled with precision, confidentiality, and a clear understanding of both UK and international legal systems. Serving East London and Beyond Our offices in Dagenham, Canary Wharf (Docklands) and Stratford provide easy access for clients throughout East London and Essex.Whether you’re relocating, expanding your business, or preparing personal documents for overseas use, LM Notary Public ensures a smooth, reliable process. Contact LM Notary Public If you need help notarising documents for use abroad, or you’re unsure which level of certification your paperwork requires, we’re here to help. 📍 Locations: Dagenham | Docklands (near Canary Wharf) | Stratford📞 Phone: [0207 101 5408]📧 Email: [info@lmnotarypublic.co.uk]🌐 Website: https://lmnotarypublic.co.uk/ Let LM Notary Public handle your documents with care — so you can focus on what’s next.
Trusted Legal Support in Dagenham, Canary Wharf & Stratford
When dealing with important legal documents or international transactions, having a trusted professional by your side is essential. At LM Notary Public, we proudly support individuals, families and businesses across Dagenham, Canary Wharf and Stratford, offering reliable, friendly and accessible notarial and legal services. Your Local Notary Public You Can Depend On LM Notary Public was founded by Lakshmy, a Solicitor and Notary Public of England and Wales. With an extensive background in law, financial institutions and client services, she brings professionalism, precision and genuine care to every client interaction. Our notary services include: Certification of documents for use abroad Attesting signatures and verifying identities Notarising educational certificates and personal documents Notarisation for international business and property transactions Corporate notarisation for companies expanding overseas Assistance with Apostille (FCDO) and Embassy legalisation Whether you’re travelling, studying, working or doing business internationally, we help ensure your documents meet all necessary legal requirements. Comprehensive Legal Services to Support You Lakshmy is also an experienced Solicitor with a strong background across private client and property law. LM Notary Public offers additional legal services including: Will Writing Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) Probate and Estate Administration These essential services provide peace of mind, protect your loved ones, and help you plan for the future with confidence. Convenient Locations Across East London We serve clients from three accessible locations: ✅ Dagenham (Essex)✅ Docklands / Canary Wharf✅ Stratford We understand that your schedule can be busy. That’s why Lakshmy offers out-of-hours appointments at no extra cost, ensuring you receive the support you need when it suits you. Whether you’re a busy professional in Canary Wharf, a family in Dagenham or a business owner in Stratford, LM Notary Public offers flexible and reliable appointments designed around you. Meet Lakshmy – Experience, Integrity & Expertise Lakshmy’s legal journey began in India where she completed her LLB and postgraduate Master’s degree in Law. She later enrolled as an Advocate with the Bar Council of India and worked in foreign banks and financial institutions before qualifying as a Solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales in 2008. Her professional roles have included: Director Head of Legal Practice Senior Technical Solicitor She has worked across areas such as Will writing, Probate, LPA, Commercial Property, Residential Conveyancing and more. Lakshmy also completed the Notarial Practice Postgraduate Diploma at University College London (UCL)—one of the most rigorous qualifications for notaries in England and Wales. She is fluent in English, Hindi and Malayalam, with limited proficiency in Tamil, enabling her to support a diverse range of clients with ease. Your Trusted Legal Partner in East London At LM Notary Public, our goal is to provide clear, friendly and professional support for all your notarial and legal needs. Whether you need documents notarised urgently, want to prepare a Will or require guidance on an LPA, we are here to help. If you’re looking for trusted legal services in Dagenham, Canary Wharf or Stratford, LM Notary Public is ready to support you every step of the way.
5 Common Notary Mistakes to Avoid
Notarising a document might seem straightforward, but even small errors can lead to delays, rejection, or legal complications. At LM Notary Public, we see many common mistakes that could easily be avoided with a little preparation. Here’s a guide to help you ensure your documents are notarised correctly the first time. 1. Incomplete or Missing Information One of the most frequent issues is submitting documents with missing details — whether it’s a date, signature, or required personal information. Tip: Double-check all fields, ensure names match official IDs, and confirm every required section is completed before visiting a notary. 2. Using Incorrect Identification A notary must verify your identity before notarising any document. Using an expired ID or one that doesn’t match the name on the document is a common reason for rejection. Tip: Bring a valid passport or government-issued ID, and ensure it matches exactly the name on the document. 3. Not Following Document-Specific Requirements Different documents often have unique rules. For example, powers of attorney, property deeds, or corporate documents may require witnesses, specific wording, or additional certification. Tip: Ask your notary about document-specific requirements ahead of time to avoid delays. 4. Ignoring Apostille or Legalisation Needs If your documents will be used overseas, they may require an apostille or other legalisation. Submitting documents without the proper certification can render them invalid abroad. Tip: Always clarify the country of use with your notary so they can advise on apostille or legalisation requirements. 5. Rushing the Process Notarisation can take time — especially for international documents. Rushing through preparation, skipping verification steps, or assuming online templates are sufficient can result in rejected documents. Tip: Plan ahead, allow extra time for verification, and consult your notary if you’re unsure about any step. How LM Notary Public Can Help At LM Notary Public, we guide clients through every step of the notarisation process. From checking your documents and ID to advising on apostilles and legalisation, we ensure your paperwork is correct, valid, and ready for submission. ✅ Save time ✅ Avoid costly mistakes ✅ Get peace o/contactf mind Need a notary you can trust? Contact LM Notary Public today and let us handle your documents with precision and care.
Back to Business This September | Notary Public East London
The long days of summer are behind us, the children are back at school, and offices across London are buzzing again. September often feels like the “real” start of the year—a moment to reset, refocus, and finally get on top of the tasks that may have been pushed aside during the warmer months. At LM Notary Public, we see this season as one of the most productive times for our clients. Whether you are an individual, a family, or a business, September offers the perfect opportunity to take stock and get your legal documents in order. September: A Natural Fresh Start Much like January inspires resolutions, September brings its own sense of renewal. The summer holidays often create a pause in day-to-day life, but once September arrives, routines settle and focus returns. This makes it the perfect moment to tackle important but often delayed tasks such as: Drafting or updating your Will. Preparing a Power of Attorney to protect your family. Having documents notarised for property transactions abroad. Certifying academic and professional certificates for study or work overseas. Why Businesses Should Act in September For businesses, the return from summer marks the start of a busy period. Projects that were on hold often resume, and many companies ramp up international dealings in the run-up to the new year. As a notary public in Canary Wharf, Stratford, and Dagenham, we frequently assist businesses with: Notarisation of company documents for overseas use. Contracts and agreements that require certified signatures. Powers of Attorney for directors managing cross-border activities. Trade and shipping documents to support international operations. Students and Professionals Preparing for What’s Next September is also the beginning of the academic year, making it an important time for students and professionals alike. Whether you’re starting a new course overseas, applying for an international job, or relocating abroad with your family, you’ll likely need notarised paperwork. This may include: Degree certificates and transcripts. Reference letters and professional qualifications. Visa and immigration paperwork. Affidavits or statutory declarations. Convenient Appointments Across East London We understand that September can also feel overwhelming, with diaries filling quickly after the summer lull. That’s why LM Notary Public offers: Flexible appointments: evenings and weekends available. Multiple East London locations: Canary Wharf, Stratford, and Dagenham offices. Same-day services in many cases, to help you meet urgent deadlines. Make September Count Instead of letting the post-holiday weeks slip by, why not take advantage of September’s fresh energy? Whether you are a business owner, a student, or a family preparing important personal documents, this is the ideal time to get organised. At LM Notary Public, we are here to guide you every step of the way. From notarisation and apostille services to Powers of Attorney and international document certification, we provide reliable support tailored to your needs. 📞 Contact us today to book an appointment at your nearest East London notary office. Let’s make this September the month you finally tick those important legal tasks off your list.
A Guide to Prepare Documents for UK and International Use
How to Prepare Documents for UK and International Use: A Guide to Notarisation & Legalisation When sending important documents abroad—whether for business, education, personal matters, or legal affairs—getting them properly prepared is essential. A small mistake, like signing a form before it’s notarised or submitting the wrong type of copy, can delay your entire process. Whether you’re applying for dual citizenship, getting married overseas, dealing with property transactions, or submitting academic credentials, your documents must meet both UK legal standards and the requirements of the destination country. In this article, we break down exactly how to prepare your documents for both UK and international use, covering notarisation, apostille services, and embassy legalisation. 1. Understand the Purpose and Destination of the Document Before anything else, you need to know where your document is going and what it will be used for. Countries have different requirements for accepting foreign documents. For example: EU countries often accept an apostille issued in the UK under the Hague Convention. Some countries (like the UAE or China) also require consular legalisation—meaning your document must be stamped by their embassy or consulate after notarisation and apostille. Knowing your destination determines how far your document must go in the legalisation chain. 2. Confirm What Type of Document You’re Using Not all documents are treated equally. Ask yourself: Is it an original document (like a birth certificate or degree)? Or is it a copy that needs to be certified as a true copy? Also, check if a translation is required. Some countries require notarised translations if the document isn’t in their official language. Common documents needing notarisation include: Academic certificates Birth and marriage certificates Powers of attorney Affidavits and declarations Company documents (e.g. Articles of Association, Certificates of Incorporation) 3. Prepare the Correct ID and Supporting Documents To notarise a document, you must present valid identification. Usually, you’ll need: A valid passport A recent utility bill or bank statement (as proof of address) If the document involves another party (like a child or company), bring supporting paperwork that shows your authority to act. Tip: Never sign the document in advance. The notary must witness your signature in person unless otherwise stated. 4. Avoid These Common Mistakes It’s easy to make innocent errors that result in delays. Here are a few to avoid: Signing documents before your appointment – The notary must witness the signature. Assuming a solicitor’s stamp = notarisation – Only a registered notary public can notarise. Using unofficial translations – Only certified translators are acceptable. Forgetting to ask if an apostille is needed – Some clients notarise a document but forget it also needs legalisation. 5. Know What Happens During the Notarisation Appointment During your appointment, the notary will: Review the document Confirm your identity and legal capacity Witness or certify your signature Add their official stamp and signature Depending on the document, they may also prepare a notarial certificate. You’ll receive the original notarised document, and if necessary, your notary can assist with the next step: legalisation. 6. Legalise the Document (Apostille & Consular) Legalisation ensures your UK-notarised document is accepted in other countries. There are two routes: Apostille (for Hague Convention countries) Your document is sent to the FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) to receive an apostille certificate. Consular Legalisation (for non-Hague countries) Some countries—like UAE, China, or Qatar—require documents to be: Notarised Apostilled Then legalised by their embassy This process can take longer, so plan ahead. 7. Final Tips for a Smooth Process Book early – Some steps like apostille or embassy visits can take days or weeks. Bring original documents – Not all copies are acceptable. Ask your notary – They can guide you on document-specific requirements. Need Help Preparing Your Documents? At LM Notary Public, we specialise in preparing, notarising, and legalising documents for international use. Whether you’re handling personal, academic, or corporate matters, we ensure your paperwork is correctly handled and legally valid—every step of the way. Contact us today to book an appointment or get advice on your document needs. 📍 Serving London & surrounding areas 🌐 lmnotarypublic.co.uk | 📞 020 1234 5678
How Notarisation Can Save Family Businesses Going Global
Family-run businesses in the UK are increasingly taking bold steps toward international growth—whether opening overseas offices, signing distribution agreements, or acquiring property abroad. But amidst the excitement, one essential step often gets missed: proper notarisation of business documents. Foreign governments, banks, and commercial partners frequently require notarised and legalised documentation before recognising your authority to act abroad. Here’s how LM Notary Public helps family businesses protect their interests and expand with confidence. Why Does Notarisation Matter for International Business? When doing business internationally, UK-issued documents are often not recognised unless they’ve been authenticated by a notary public—and sometimes legalised by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or relevant embassy. This validation proves the genuineness of your business documents, such as: Board or shareholder resolutions Articles of Association or incorporation certificates Commercial contracts and loan agreements Powers of Attorney to act abroad Appointment of overseas representatives or agents Common Pitfall: Apostille vs Embassy Legalisation If you’re dealing with a Hague Convention country (e.g. France, Germany, India), an apostille stamp from the FCDO is often sufficient. For non-Hague countries (e.g. UAE, China), you may also need embassy or consular legalisation—another step we can help with. Client Story: East London Family Business Expands to the UAE We recently supported a small IT consultancy, run by two brothers in East London, who were opening a branch in Dubai. They needed several documents notarised and legalised, including: Company incorporation documents A Power of Attorney authorising their UAE manager A signed commercial agreement with a regional distributor LM Notary Public managed the entire process—from notarisation to embassy legalisation—saving them time, errors, and last-minute delays with UAE officials. Why Work With LM Notary Public? We specialise in helping family and small businesses navigate international legal requirements smoothly. Here’s what sets us apart: Same-day notarisation & weekend appointments Mobile visits across Greater London Multi-language support (including Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam) Decades of experience with over 80+ international jurisdictions Checklist: Are You Ready to Take Your Business Global? ✔️ Have you checked if your target country requires an apostille or embassy legalisation? ✔️ Do you have a Power of Attorney for someone acting abroad on your behalf? ✔️ Are your company documents certified and up-to-date? ✔️ Have you consulted a notary before submitting paperwork overseas? Let’s Simplify the Paperwork Going global doesn’t have to be complicated. At LM Notary Public, we make international expansion easier by ensuring your documents are properly notarised, legalised, and accepted worldwide. Contact us today for a free consultation or to book a mobile notary visit.
Certified Copy vs Notarised Copy: What’s the Difference?
Whether you’re applying for a visa, buying property abroad, or submitting documents to a foreign embassy, you’ve probably been told to provide either a certified copy or a notarised copy. At first glance, they might seem interchangeable — but legally, they are very different. Submitting the wrong version can delay your application, lead to rejection, or even cause problems with overseas authorities. Unfortunately, many people don’t discover this until it’s too late. In this guide, we’ll explain the key differences between a certified and notarised copy, why it matters, and how LM Notary Public can help you get it right the first time — especially if your documents are going abroad. ✅ What Is a Certified Copy? A certified copy is a photocopy of an original document that has been verified as accurate by a trusted professional. The person certifying the copy confirms that they’ve seen the original and that the copy is a true likeness. In the UK, certified copies can usually be done by: A solicitor or lawyer A notary public (though not always required) An accountant A doctor or dentist A teacher or university official A bank or building society official Any “person of good standing” in the community They’ll usually write a short certification statement on the copy, such as: “I certify that this is a true copy of the original document seen by me.” They’ll sign and date the document and may include their professional details or registration number, depending on the requirements of the receiving institution. 📌 Common Uses of Certified Copies Opening a UK bank account Applying for a UK job or government service Registering with HMRC or Companies House Enrolling in a UK school or university Providing ID for tenancy agreements or loans Important: Certified copies are typically not accepted by foreign institutions. That’s where notarisation comes in. 🌍 What Is a Notarised Copy? A notarised copy is also a copy of an original document — but in this case, it has been verified and certified by a Notary Public. This is a highly qualified legal professional who is authorised under UK and international law to authenticate documents for use abroad. The notary ensures that: The original document is valid and unaltered The copy is complete, accurate, and clear The person requesting notarisation has the right to do so All international legal requirements are met Once verified, the notary will attach an official notarial certificate, which includes their signature, seal, and details confirming the copy’s authenticity. 🌐 When Is Notarisation Required? Sending documents to foreign embassies or consulates Applying for overseas visas or work permits Buying or selling property abroad Enrolling in a university outside the UK Conducting business with international partners Creating Powers of Attorney for use overseas In many cases, notarisation is only the first step. The document may also need to be: Apostilled by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Legalised by the embassy of the country where the document will be used This is where expert notarial guidance becomes essential. 🧭 Certified vs Notarised: How to Know What You Need The easiest way to determine whether you need a certified or notarised copy is to ask a simple question: Will this document be used outside the UK? If the answer is yes — even if it’s just scanned and sent to a foreign office — it likely needs to be notarised. Still not sure? We strongly recommend checking with the receiving organisation. Requirements vary widely between countries, and some may even demand both notarisation and apostille. For example: India: Notarisation plus consular legalisation is often required Spain: Requires apostille on notarised documents UAE: Legalisation at the UAE Embassy in London is mandatory after notarisation ⚠️ Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them) We regularly help clients who come to us after their documents have been rejected. Here are some common pitfalls: Assuming a certified copy is valid for international use Using an unqualified certifier (e.g. a friend or employer) Not including all required pages when copying multi-page documents Overlooking the need for an apostille or embassy stamp Waiting until the last minute and rushing the process Solution: Always speak with a qualified notary before sending documents overseas. It could save you days — or even weeks — of lost time. 🕊️ How LM Notary Public Can Help At LM Notary Public, we make the process simple, fast, and stress-free. We provide: Expert guidance on what level of certification your document requires Certified copies for local use and full notarial certification for international documents Same-day appointments, including evenings and weekends Full apostille and embassy legalisation support Service in English, Malayalam, Hindi, and Tamil Offices in East London (Isle of Dogs & Dagenham) with mobile notary options We handle everything from travel consent letters to powers of attorney, degree certificates, business documents, and more. If you’re unsure what’s required — we’ll walk you through it step by step. ✍️ Final Thoughts Don’t leave document authentication to guesswork. The difference between a certified copy and a notarised copy is more than just a stamp — it’s about legal recognition, especially across borders. Whether you’re applying for a visa, planning a move abroad, or finalising an international business deal, we’re here to help you get it done properly — the first time.
Last-Minute Notary Requests? Avoid Travel Stress
Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for international travel. Whether you’re planning a family holiday, sending your children abroad to visit relatives, or preparing to tie the knot overseas, the excitement of travel can quickly turn to panic if you’re faced with a last-minute need for notarised documents by a notary. At LM Notary Public, we see a surge in urgent requests every summer—many of which could have been avoided with just a little foresight. In this post, we’ll walk you through the most common notarial needs for travellers and offer simple, proactive tips to help you stay stress-free as your departure date approaches. Why Summer Brings a Surge in Notary Needs Summer holidays often come with an increase in legal paperwork, especially for families and individuals heading abroad. Here’s why we see a seasonal spike in notarial requests: Family Travel: Children often travel with one parent or grandparents, requiring notarised consent letters. Summer Education: Students enrolling in international summer programs often need notarised documents for enrolment and guardianship. Weddings Abroad: Couples planning to marry overseas may need to sign statutory declarations or provide evidence of freedom to marry. Property or Legal Transactions: Some clients use their holiday time to manage overseas business, property purchases, or legal matters that require a power of attorney. Essential Travel Documents That May Require Notarisation Before you pack your bags, consider whether any of the following documents will be needed during your trip. Many countries and institutions require official notarisation for these documents to be accepted: Parental Consent Letters: If a child is travelling without both parents, notarised written consent is often required by airlines or immigration authorities. Certified Copies of Passports: Visa applications or ID verification processes may ask for a notarised copy of your passport. Power of Attorney: Granting someone legal authority to manage your affairs while you’re away—especially for property, banking, or medical decisions. Medical Consent for Children: Allowing a temporary guardian or relative to make healthcare decisions if a child is travelling without a parent. Marriage Documents: Certain countries require statutory declarations, single status certificates, or other notarised documents prior to a legal marriage ceremony. How to Avoid Last-Minute Panic The good news? You can easily avoid last-minute stress by following a few simple steps ahead of time: Book in Advance: Try to schedule your notary appointment at least 1–2 weeks before your travel date. Summer slots fill up fast, especially for more complex documentation. Check the Requirements of Your Destination Country: Some countries require legalisation or an apostille in addition to notarisation. Make sure you understand these requirements early on. Bring the Right Documents: Ensure you bring valid photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s licence), and any supporting documents. Originals are always preferred over photocopies. Match Names Exactly: Ensure names and spellings are consistent across all documents. Discrepancies can lead to delays or rejections abroad. Allow Time for Translation or Legalisation: If your documents need to be translated or sent to the FCDO or embassy, factor in that extra time too. Pre-Travel Legal Checklist Before you head to the airport, take a moment to review this quick legal checklist: ✅ All required documents have been signed in the presence of a notary. ✅ Apostille or legalisation arranged (if needed). ✅ Originals and certified copies packed safely in your hand luggage. ✅ Digital backups or scans stored securely (email, cloud, or USB). ✅ Emergency contact details and access to a solicitor or notary abroad, just in case. Need Help Before You Travel? We understand how quickly plans can change—especially during the summer. LM Notary Public offers flexible appointments and aims to accommodate urgent requests whenever possible. Whether you’re travelling for leisure, family, or legal reasons, we’re here to make the process smooth, professional, and stress-free. Contact us today to book your notary appointment and ensure your travel plans go off without a hitch.
Do I Need a Notary or a Solicitor?
When navigating the often complex world of legal documentation, especially documents intended for use overseas, many people find themselves asking: Do I need to see a notary or a solicitor? While both are legal professionals in the UK, they serve distinctly different purposes. Understanding the difference between the two roles — and knowing which one is appropriate for your particular situation — can help you avoid unnecessary delays, extra costs, and even legal complications. In this post, we’ll explore what each professional does, how they differ, and when you should see a notary instead of a solicitor. ✅ What Is a Notary Public? A Notary Public (or simply, a notary) is a specially trained legal professional whose main role is to authenticate, certify, and verify legal documents — particularly for use outside the United Kingdom. Notaries are internationally recognised, and their certification is often a legal requirement in foreign jurisdictions. Some common duties include: Verifying the identity of individuals signing legal documents Witnessing signatures on powers of attorney and declarations Certifying copies of passports, degrees, and official certificates Preparing or notarising documents for international use Arranging legalisation services such as apostilles and consular stamps Notaries are highly regulated professionals governed by the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury and must comply with strict rules regarding conduct, insurance, and record-keeping. ⚖️ What Is a Solicitor? A Solicitor is a qualified legal practitioner in the UK who offers legal advice, drafts contracts and legal documents, and may represent clients in certain courts. Solicitors commonly work in areas such as: Property law (buying and selling homes) Family law (divorces, custody, etc.) Wills and probate Employment and contract disputes Solicitors can also certify documents for use within the UK. However, this type of certification is often not sufficient for use abroad. Foreign governments, courts, and institutions generally require the document to be notarised by a qualified Notary Public. 🔍 What’s the Main Difference? The main distinction lies in their scope and jurisdiction: Notaries are recognised internationally. They deal with documents intended for use abroad. Solicitors operate primarily within the UK legal system and focus on domestic matters. In England and Wales, many notaries are also qualified solicitors, but not all solicitors are notaries. Notarial work requires additional training and a separate professional qualification. ✍️ When Do You Need a Notary Instead of a Solicitor? You will likely need a notary if: You are signing a power of attorney for use abroad You need certified copies of documents for a foreign university, employer, or visa application You are buying or selling property in another country You are dealing with international inheritance or marriage matters You run a UK company that needs notarised documents for overseas operations On the other hand, if your legal matter is strictly within the UK (such as buying a house, writing a will, or resolving a local dispute), a solicitor will be the right professional to consult. 🧭 Why the Confusion? In England and Wales, all notaries are lawyers, but not all lawyers are notaries. This overlap can cause confusion for the public. It’s important to remember that if your documents are intended for use outside the UK, you should consult a Notary Public. Using the wrong professional can result in delays, rejected documents, and increased costs — particularly if the documents require further legalisation, such as an apostille from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). 📌 Final Thoughts When it comes to legal documentation, understanding whether you need a notary or a solicitor is crucial. Making the right choice ensures your documents are accepted without issues by foreign authorities and institutions. At LM Notary Public, we specialise in notarial services for individuals and businesses across London and the UK. Whether you need a document notarised for personal, academic, or commercial use, our team offers fast, friendly, and expert assistance — including help with apostilles and consular legalisation where required. Still unsure what you need? We’re happy to guide you. Contact LM Notary Public today for personalised advice and efficient service.