Swears, Affirmations, Legalisation and Document Certifications

What is a ‘Swear’ or ‘Affirmation’?

This is when an individual signs an important legal document (such as a Statutory Declarations or Oath) in the presence of a Solicitor (as opposed to a Notary) and then “swears” or “affirms” that the contents are true. The charge for this is £5 per document and £2 per exhibit attached to the document, but can vary depending upon number of copies required and complexity.

What is a ‘Certified Copy’ of a document?

This is an exact copy of an original document, certified by a solicitor (as opposed to a Notary) to confirm that it is identical to the original. The wording of the Certification will depend on the precise requirements of those asking you to provide it.   The charge for this is usually £10 per document but can vary depending upon number of copies required and complexity.

We do not give legal advice in these situations but this that can be arranged separately subject to our usual procedures.

What is a ‘Legalisation’ of a document?

This is where you do not have the original document or where you are required to send or use the documents overseas. This is often required when sending documents to The Legalisation Office or The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), which is now The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). We will be able to use our registered stamp / seal. This service is often used in conjunction with separately obtaining an Apostille certificate. Only certain Solicitors (as opposed to a Notary) are able to legalise documents. The charge for this is usually £10 per document, but can vary depending upon number of copies required and complexity.

Please feel free to contact us if you required these services, which can usually be provided at short notice.

 

To discuss swears, affirmations, legalisation or document certifications, please contact us.