Friday 26 June 2020

How Is a Notary Public in US Different from a Notary Public in the UK?

Notaries are regarded as public law officials in the UK. They witness signatures on essential documents and also help in other documentation. Notaries are also known for issuing an apostille apart from legalising the documents. While notaries in the US perform similar duties, they are different from a UK notary public. Next time you have to get something notarised, finding a Notary Public in Kingston is a good idea. A US notary might not be able to help you.

How does one become a notary?

Notaries are relatively common in the US. To become a notary in the US, you can buy your entitlement for a specified period. You don't have to be legally qualified. The practice period, also known as 'commission' expires after the stipulated period.


Notaries in the UK are generally lawyers as well. Even if it isn't mandatory, it helps. There are examinations that you must pass and train that you must acquire to become a registered notary. The process is more meticulous and tedious. Once you are a notary, you hold the position for your lifetime; it doesn't expire. Notaries in the UK are fewer in comparison to the US.

The status: A notary is a public law office in the UK. They legalise the documents. A notary in the US is not entitled to this status on the other hand. He or she isn’t considered a public official, which means there is another level of legalisation that has to be done at a later stage.

You will need to find a notary that suits your needs accordingly. You can get excellent services of a notary public in Kingston at Porter and Co. They offer consultation and documentation at general fair prices that depend on the kind of work you want to get done.