In England and Wales Public Notaries are mainly concerned with the preparation, verification and authentication of documents which will be used in foreign countries.

Partner Richard Martin holds the office of Notary Public. His practice is separate and independent from the firm of Andrews Martin. Notaries are qualified lawyers, and while most of them are solicitors, most solicitors are not Notaries. Appointment is by the Archbishop of Canterbury and Notaries are regulated by the Court of Faculties. Patricia Martin is currently completing the qualification course at the University of Cambridge prior to being admitted as a Notary.

As a Public Notary Richard can help with:

• Powers of Attorney for use abroad by companies or individuals
• Business Documents and Deeds
• Documents for use in Court proceedings abroad
• Documents for use in Property transactions or inheritance matters abroad
• Declarations and Affidavits for use abroad
• Authenticating of transfers or registration of patents and trade marks abroad
• Sponsorship forms for people visiting the UK
• Applications for citizenship and oaths of allegiance
• Witnessing the signature of foreign Wills
• Noting of protest and advising on Bills of Exchange
• Certifying birth, marriage and death certificates and passports
• Certifying education certificates subject to verification by the issuing organisation
• Overseas adoptions
• Authenticating identity and signatures
• Obtaining "apostille" legalisation
• Obtaining legalisation with foreign embassies and consulates

Fees:

It is a requirement of the Notaries' Rules that the fees charged be reasonable in all the Circumstances, and advance indication of the likely fee must be given before any work is carried out.

The fees charged will depend upon the particular matter and its complexity. Additional expenses, eg Legalisation fees, may also be incurred and will be charged in addition to the Fee.

The Notary's Seal

A Notary identifies himself in documents by use of his signature and his individual seal. Each Notary has their own seal which is registered with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and many foreign embassies and consulates.

The Notary's requirements:

When you visit the Notary you will need:

• To make an appointment
• To bring with you evidence of your identity, such as a current valid passport, photo driving licence, recent utility or Council Tax Bill showing your address. A full list of suitable documents can be obtained by contacting Richard Martin.
• Be satisfied that you fully understand the document you wish to be notarised
• Bring all relevant supporting documents to show the Notary
• Bring with you the fee and additional funds to cover any expenses
• If your command of English is poor, to expect the Notary to require an Interpreter and/or Translator of his choice to be present, in which case a further appointment may be necessary

If I can help you with any matters requiring a Notary Public, please telephone or email