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.
