Frequently Asked Questions
What does a notary public do?
A notary verifies and prepares documents that are going to be used outside the United Kingdom. If you need to sign a legal document for use abroad, it usually has to be notarised: the notary confirms your identity, your signature and, where relevant, your authority to sign for a company.
Will you advise me on my document?
No. As a notary I act as a witness and check identity, signature, authority and capacity. I do not give legal advice on the documents you sign, so you should take independent legal advice first if you are unsure what a document means.
How much does it cost?
The minimum fee is £60 and my hourly rate is £195 plus VAT. You will be given an estimate before any work is done. Fees for apostilles, legalisation, translation and couriers are charged on top, and you will be told about them in advance. See Terms & Fees for the full details.
What is an apostille, and do I need one?
An apostille is a certificate from the UK government that confirms a notary’s signature, so your document is accepted in other countries that have signed the Hague Convention. Countries outside the Convention usually need legalisation by their embassy or consulate instead.
The organisation or country asking for your document will tell you which one it needs. I can arrange either for you.
How long does it take?
Most documents are notarised at the appointment itself. If you need an urgent apostille, the express service usually takes 2 to 3 days. Embassy legalisation times vary from country to country, and I will give you an estimate when you instruct me.
Can I get an appointment at short notice or out of hours?
Yes. I see clients out of office hours by appointment at no extra cost. Additional costs apply only where the work is needed on an urgent basis.
Can you come to me?
Yes, home and office visits can be arranged. The fee reflects the time spent travelling and waiting, and will be agreed with you beforehand.
What should I bring to the appointment?
The original documents to be notarised, a current passport or photocard driving licence, and a recent bank statement or utility bill as proof of address. If you are signing for a company, also bring a Letter of Authority, Minute, Resolution or Power of Attorney confirming your authority.
Sending me the documents in advance saves time, expense and mistakes. The Appointments page has the full list.
Where are you?
At 29 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Holborn, London, WC2A 3EG, and in Camberley, Surrey. I also see clients across the surrounding area, including Farnborough, Bagshot, Bracknell, Fleet, Staines, Slough and Hounslow.
Which languages do you speak?
English, Hindi, Urdu and Malayalam.