How Can a Notary Help Me?

A notary, also known as a notary public or public notary is a lawyer appointed by a local authority to perform functions related to the certification of documents for use internationally. Although the meaning of the word ‘notary’ varies around the world, in New South Wales it is broadly approximated as meaning an ‘international JP’. In New South Wales, a notary is appointed by the Supreme Court of New South Wales under the terms of the Public Notaries Act 1997 (NSW) and the Public Notaries Appointment Rules 1998.

Notaries in New South Wales are also usually very experienced lawyers given that they must be lawyers of at least 5 years standing and complete the prescribed Notarial Practice Course and apply through the Legal Profession Admission Board (the Board). Upon appointment, the name of the notary is entered on the Roll of Public Notaries maintained by the Board.

The most common functions or tasks of notaries within Australia tend to be:

– Authenticating official, Government and personal documents for use overseas;

– Witnessing signatures of individuals to documents and authenticating identity;

– Witnessing Powers of Attorney for use overseas;

– Certifying true copies of documents for use overseas;

– Witnessing documents and authenticating status and transactions; and

– Dealing with documentation for land, property and deceased estates overseas.

If you would like to utilise the services of a notary please do not hesitate to contact us using the contact forms available on this site.