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Certification, Witnessing & Oaths: Legal Problems, Helpful Solutions.

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Certification, Witnessing & Oaths: Legal Problems, Helpful Solutions.

We're here to help you

Send your details to us and we will call you back to take further information about your matter.

If you are looking for help with certificate / witnessing our specialist solicitors can help you. In addition to office meetings, we offer remote meetings by telephone or video if preferred. To discuss your options call us 24/7 on 0208 004 0065 or email us at hello@southgate.co.uk 

Certificate, Witnessing & Oaths

When a solicitor certifies or witnesses documents, it involves providing formal validation or attestation to the authenticity, accuracy, or execution of the documents. Here’s a breakdown of what it means: 

Certification of Documents: 

  • Verification: The solicitor verifies that the copy of the document presented to them is a true and accurate representation of the original. 
  • Endorsement: After verifying the copy, the solicitor endorses it with a statement confirming its authenticity. This typically includes a declaration, the solicitor’s signature, and the date of certification. 
  • Purpose: Certified documents are often required for legal or administrative purposes, such as submitting evidence to courts, government agencies, or other organizations. The certification provides assurance of the document’s validity. 

Witnessing of Documents: 

  • Verification of Signatures: The solicitor witnesses the signing of a document and verifies the identity of the signatory. 
  • Confirmation of Intent: The solicitor ensures that the signatory understands the contents of the document and signs it voluntarily. 
  • Endorsement: The solicitor signs the document as a witness, attesting to the signing process. This endorsement typically includes the solicitor’s signature, name, and qualification (e.g., “Solicitor” or “Notary Public”). 
  • Legal Effect: Witnessing by a solicitor adds legal weight to the document, confirming that it was executed properly and in accordance with legal requirements. 

What can we do

At southgate solicitors, we offer comprehensive assistance tailored to your needs throughout your Certificate / Witnessing journey. Our team of experienced professionals understand the intricacies of family law and are dedicated to providing you with the expertise and support you need during what can be a daunting and highly emotional time.  We have Resolution members and also hold Law Society Family Law Advanced Panel Accreditation which demonstrates our knowledge, skill and expertise in this area of law. 

If you wish to read more about this area of law we have some frequently asked questions at the end of this page – feel free to scroll down to read more.

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FAQs

Certification involves verifying the authenticity and accuracy of a document, declaring it to be a true and accurate copy of the original. This certification is typically required for legal or administrative purposes. 

Certification is necessary when presenting documents where authenticity is crucial, such as passports, birth certificates, academic transcripts, or contracts. It provides assurance that the document is genuine and can be relied upon. 

Solicitors compare the copy of the document with the original to ensure accuracy. After confirming its authenticity, they endorse the copy with a statement, signature, and date, affirming its accuracy. This certified copy is then considered valid for legal or administrative use. 

Witnessing involves observing the signing of a document and verifying the signatory’s identity and intent. The solicitor then signs the document as a witness, confirming the signing process and adding legal weight to the document. 

Solicitor witnessing is required for legal documents such as contracts, wills, powers of attorney, or statutory declarations. It ensures that the document is executed properly and voluntarily, enhancing its validity and enforceability. 

Solicitors oversee the signing of the document, verify the signatory’s identity, and ensure they understand the document’s contents. After the signing, the solicitor signs as a witness, providing confirmation of the signing process. 

Generally, any qualified solicitor can certify or witness documents. However, some documents may require specific expertise or authorization. It’s advisable to consult with a solicitor familiar with the relevant area of law. 

Yes, solicitors typically charge a fee for certification or witnessing services. The fee may vary depending on the complexity of the task and the solicitor’s professional rates. 

Solicitors can certify or witness various documents, including contracts, wills, deeds, statutory declarations, affidavits, and official records. The specific requirements may vary depending on the document’s nature and intended use. 

We're here to help you

Send your details to us and we will call you back to take further information about your matter, or you can click the number below.

We're here to help you

Send your details to us and we will call you back to take further information about your matter, or you can click the number below.