Terms of Business

eNotaryPublic.co.uk A Trading Name of Wharf Notaries

WHARF NOTARIES
NOTARY PUBLIC
40 Bank Street, Level 18, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5NR
info@wharfnotaries.com

VISITING A NOTARY PUBLIC AND TERMS OF BUSINESS

1. Why See a Notary?

You may need a notary because your document is intended for use abroad. A notary’s role is not merely a formality—it involves a high standard of care towards the client, foreign officials, and governments. This ensures compliance with local and international requirements, reduces risks of fraud, and maintains trust in the notary’s records.

Appointments are available during business hours, with limited availability outside of these times in exceptional circumstances. Home or corporate visits can be arranged for an additional fee to cover travel and time. If I cannot assist you, I will provide guidance on locating an alternative notary.

2. Signing Requirements

Please do not sign your document before your appointment. The notary must witness your signature.

3. Documents to Send in Advance

To save time, please send the following in advance:

• The document(s) to be notarised.

• Any instructions or correspondence regarding the document(s).

• Identification documents (see below).

4. Identification Requirements

Please provide one of the following original forms of ID:

• Current passport.

• Current photo driving licence or national ID card.

If unavailable, provide two of the following:

• Government-issued ID with a photo.

• Utility bill, bank statement, or council tax bill (dated within three months).

Additional identification such as marriage certificates or name change documents may be required. If applicable, foreign ID cards should also be presented.

5. Proof of Names

If the name on the document differs from your current name, provide supporting documents, such as:

• Birth, marriage, or divorce certificates.

• Deed Poll or Statutory Declaration of name change.

6. Advice on the Document

I will guide you on the formalities required for completing the document. However, I will not advise on the document’s legal or transactional implications.

7. Translations

If the document is in a language you do not fully understand:

• A professional written translation may be required. Translators must certify their work.

• Additional fees apply for translations arranged through me.

8. Interpreters

If language barriers exist, an interpreter may need to attend the appointment. This will incur additional costs.

9. Corporate and Organisational Documents

For documents signed on behalf of a company, charity, or partnership, additional documentation is needed, such as:

• Evidence of authority to sign (e.g., resolution or Power of Attorney).

• Company incorporation documents and a list of directors.

Please contact me to discuss specific requirements before your appointment.

10. Fees and Expenses

• Simple matters: Fixed fees may include disbursements (e.g., legalisation fees, courier costs).

• Complex matters: Charged at £540/hour plus disbursements, covering preparation, advice, correspondence, and record-keeping.

Payment for disbursements may be required in advance. Fees are due upon completion of the document.

11. Notarial Process

Key stages of notarial work include:

• Reviewing documents and instructions.

• Verifying identity, authority, and understanding.

• Certifying, drafting, and affixing notarial certificates.

• Arranging legalisation (apostille or embassy legalisation).

• Storing records in compliance with professional regulations.

12. Records and Data Protection

Notarial records are securely maintained per the Notarial Practice Rules 2019. Personal data is processed solely for professional purposes and stored in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

13. Insurance

I maintain professional indemnity insurance of at least £1,000,000 per claim for your protection.

14. Termination and Cancellation

• By you: You may terminate instructions at any time with reasonable notice. Fees incurred to date will still be payable.

• By me: I reserve the right to terminate engagement for valid reasons, such as non-payment or lack of cooperation.

Consumer Cooling-Off Period (Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013): You have 14 days to cancel your contract. If work begins during this period, you will be charged for work completed up to the point of cancellation.

15. Complaints

If dissatisfied, contact me first. If unresolved, you may escalate to:

The Faculty Office 1 The Sanctuary Westminster, London SW1P 3JT Phone: 020 7222 5381
Email: faculty.office@1thesanctuary.com
Website: www.facultyoffice.org.uk

Alternatively, contact the Notaries Society:

The Notaries Society P.O. Box 7655 Milton Keynes MK11 9NR
Phone: 01908 803527
Email: secretary@thenotariessociety.org.uk
Website: www.thenotariessociety.org.uk