If your business is involved in international contracts, overseas property transactions, or foreign legal matters of any sort, then there’s a good chance you will need any of a range of services provided by a Notary Public.
While many people associate notaries with simple document signing and personal matters, a Notary Public plays a critical role in ensuring the authenticity and legality of business documents for use abroad.
What do Notaries do?
A Notary Public is a qualified lawyer who is authorised to certify, authenticate and witness documents for use overseas. Unlike solicitors who primarily handle domestic legal matters, notaries deal with the preparation and verification of documents that will be used in foreign jurisdictions. Their duties typically include:
- Authenticating company documents – such as powers of attorney, board resolutions, and articles of association
- Certifying signatures on contracts or business agreements
- Verifying identities of directors, shareholders, and authorised representatives
- Confirming a company’s legal status or good standing in the UK
- Preparing and certifying documents for overseas trade, such as commercial invoices or shipping documents
- Assisting with apostille and legalisation – ensuring the document is recognised by the foreign country, often via the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and relevant consulates
Because these documents will be scrutinised in other legal systems, accuracy and compliance with international protocols are essential to ensure that transactions proceed smoothly and swiftly.
When might you need a Notary Public?
Many UK businesses are unaware they need a notary until a transaction is delayed due to missing necessary documentation. Here are a few typical situations where notarial services are required:
- Doing business overseas: Signing contracts with foreign partners or clients often requires notarised documentation to ensure the parties’ identities and intentions are verified before signatures are applied or money changes hands.
- Opening a foreign branch or bank account: Overseas banks and registries usually require notarised and legalised copies of UK company documents.
- International property purchases or leases: Whether a business is buying offices in Europe or leasing warehouses in the Middle East, a notary will likely need to be involved.
- Cross-border litigation or arbitration: If your company is involved in legal action in another country, evidence or affidavits may need to be notarised to be admissible.
- Trading across borders: Exporters often need notarial certification of documents like certificates of origin or customs documentation.
If your business deals internationally, a Notary Public will help ensure you comply with local regulations, avoid costly delays and keep your transactions on track.
What’s the difference between a Notary Public and a solicitor?
Although both are qualified lawyers, the roles of a solicitor and a Notary Public are distinct:
| Solicitor | Notary Public |
| Focuses on UK legal matters and client representation | Specialises in document authentication for use overseas |
| Prepares legal documents such as contracts, wills, and conveyancing paperwork | Verifies and certifies documents, signatures, and identities |
| Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) | Regulated by the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury |
| Acts in the client’s best interests | Acts as an impartial and internationally recognised witness |
In practice, a solicitor may prepare a legal document, but if it’s intended for use abroad, a Notary Public will be needed to authenticate it.
Notarial services at Buckles Law
At Buckles Solicitors, our notarial services are provided independently by Michael Rabbett, a Partner at the firm and an experienced Notary Public. He has a strong track record of supporting businesses with international needs, ensuring that documentation meets the legal standards of foreign authorities.
Michael’s services are provided completely independently of Buckles Law, but his dual role offers clients the benefit of a high level of professionalism and commerciality when they need it for their overseas business dealings.
You can find out more about Michael’s notarial services, fees, and booking process by visiting his dedicated website: www.englishnotary.com
Get in touch
If your business needs support with overseas documentation, international contracts, or document legalisation, our Notary Public can help. We work with companies of all sizes across multiple industries, delivering a fast, efficient and fully compliant service.
To discuss your requirements or arrange an appointment, visit our Notary Public for Businesses page or contact us directly.
