As a Notary I perform a wide variety of services mostly in connection with individuals’ and businesses’ affairs outside the United Kingdom.
The principal task of the Notary is to render your documents acceptable in the country in which they are to be used.

It is important to appreciate that the role of a Notary will often include checking the identity of the person signing as well as his or her legal capacity, authority and understanding of the document. A Notary’s duty is to the transaction (rather than to individual) and it is important to ensure that people who are signing documents do so freely and voluntarily and without pressure or duress.

Only after the Notary is satisfied on these points, can he provide the necessary certificate. Our acts and instruments are recognised throughout the World and may be relied upon by many parties. That is why it is important for Notaries to make all the necessary checks beforehand. A Notary may be required to prepare documentation (including his Notarial certificate) in order to give full effect to the particular transaction.

The following are examples of the types of work I undertake most of which fall into the general categories of verifying, certifying or authenticating signatures, documents and various acts and events.

• Authentication of identities, signatures and authority in relation to business and personal transactions
• Preparation and execution of Powers of Attorney and other documents for use abroad
• Taking declarations, sworn statements and affidavits for use abroad
• Witnessing and attesting the execution of foreign wills
• Authentication of transfers of patents and trade marks
• Preparation of sponsorship forms for visiting foreign citizens
• Legalisation service with the Foreign Office (“Apostille”) Foreign Embassies and Consulates
• Certifying copy documents including passports and academic and other certificates and many kinds of commercial documents
• Letters consenting to minors travelling abroad

This is not an exhaustive list but examples of the kinds of services which I am mostly called upon to provide. If you are uncertain about what you need to do, I will be happy to discuss it with you.

I keep records of all official documents that I prepare or authenticate, and usually keep copies of them. These serve as a record and I am required to make these available to all those who have a proper right to see them.

Documents that I deal with may be in a foreign language. If so, I have to ensure that both I and you understand their meaning and effect. Notaries do not generally give advice; this is the job of the foreign lawyer engaged in the transaction. It is important that you show me any correspondence or advice that has been provided to you and which may have a bearing on how your documents are processed.

Before seeing me, it is imperative that we discuss your requirements first and what it is you wish to achieve. Sometimes it is necessary for me to suggest a particular course of action in order that the process is successful and will be accepted by the receiving party abroad.

In order to best do this I need to see beforehand any documentation you have been sent and also any instructions which have been given. These can be emailed to me in advance of the meeting.

I will need to check the identity of all signatories so they will to produce photographic identity such as an original passport. In addition, I will need to see proof of your address such as a Council tax or utility bill (gas, water, electricity or telephone) or a bank statement bearing your name. Full details can be found on the client information form which I will email you before we meet.

When we discuss matters prior to our meeting, I can also indicate to you how long our meeting is likely to take and provide an estimate of the probable cost.

I can also advise as to whether any other procedures may be involved, such as legalisation (Foreign Office or Embassy certification), and the cost of this and how long this will take. If there are several people who need to sign, it is desirable and more cost effective if everyone attends the same meeting.

I will need to know in advance if any of the documents are in a language other than English and if any of the signatories has any difficulties with hearing or sight or is disabled or does not speak or understand the English language.

I will usually arrange meetings in my home office in Ystrad Meurig. I can also arrange to meet in your home or office but where I have to travel to see you, this is likely to incur additional cost.