A notary public is an official who is authorised to perform certain legal formalities, especially to witness signatures on documents.
While notaries are more commonly used in some countries, UK companies can also benefit from their services in certain situations. Here are 7 key reasons a company might need to use a notary public:
Verifying Identities
One of the main functions of a notary is to verify the identity of a person signing a document. When signing contracts or other important papers, it can be critical to confirm the signer is who they claim to be.
A notary will check ID documents like passports and driving licences to ensure the signer’s identity. This provides an extra layer of legal protection and assurance for companies entering contracts.
Witnessing Signatures
Notaries provide an impartial witness to the signing of important documents. Having a notary present to observe the signature can help validate that the signer intended to sign the document, did so willingly, and signed in the presence of the notary.
This protects against potential claims of forged signatures or signers claiming they did not understand what they were signing.
Certifying True Copies
Notaries can also certify that a photocopy or scan of a document is a true and accurate reproduction of the original. This can be useful when submitting copies of documents for legal purposes, such as contracts, articles of incorporation, identification, or academic records.
The notary’s seal on the copies provides assurance of their authenticity.
Attesting to Sworn Affidavits
For legal processes that require a sworn affidavit, a Cheltenham notary can witness the party making the affidavit sign and take an oath vouching for the truth of the statements made.
Notarising a document verifies the identity of the affiant and can certify that the oath was properly sworn. This provides critical evidence of the affidavit’s legitimacy.
Administering Oaths
A notary is authorised to administer oaths and affirmations. They can properly swear in affiants for legal affidavits, as well as swear in witnesses providing oral testimony for depositions, trials, and certain other legal proceedings.
Having a notary oversee the oath taking helps ensure proper procedures are followed and provides legal credibility.
Validate a Power of Attorney for an Overseas Agent
Notaries can validate that a power of attorney document giving legal authority to an agent or representative in another country is legitimate and properly executed. This provides assurance when granting powers overseas.
Assert Trademark and Other Intellectual Property Rights in Foreign Jurisdictions
Notaries can help assert trademark and intellectual property rights abroad by certifying application documents, licenses, and other IP records. This aids in protecting IP rights internationally.
While not always essential, there are many situations where utilising a notary public can provide extra confidence and legal protections for companies handling important documents and processes.
Taking advantage of notary services is relatively affordable and straightforward, making it a worthwhile investment for companies that want to ensure they are covered when deals and legal issues are on the line.
