Estimates
It is difficult to estimate in some cases how much time will be required to complete a matter, bearing in mind the variety of circumstances that may arise. However, guidance as to likely costs will be given on receipt of instructions and sight of documents. Any estimates given will be based on the information available at the time and, although given in good faith, will not be binding. Please note that our minimum charge is £100.
Frequently asked questions
What does it cost?
A minimum fee applies. Additional fees depend on the complexity of the matter and are agreed in advance where possible. Disbursements — for example FCDO Apostille fees or embassy legalisation — are charged separately and explained before work begins.
How do I get a quotation?
Send the documents (or a clear description) and the country where they will be used. A quotation is based on the information available at the time.
How do I book?
Phone 01253 629300 or email sloman.notary@gmail.com. A client registration form can be sent in advance so the meeting runs smoothly.
How can I pay?
Payment may be made by bank transfer, cash, or invoice by prior arrangement.
Do we need to meet in person?
Usually yes. Meetings are strictly by appointment. Remote or electronic options may be available for some matters — ask when you book.
What should I bring?
Bring the documents to be notarised unsigned (the notary must normally witness your signature), your current passport or other official photo ID, and recent proof of your UK address such as a utility bill.
What is an Apostille?
An Apostille is an official certificate issued by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. It confirms that the notary’s signature and seal are genuine so the document can be relied on in other countries that accept Apostilles.
What is legalisation?
Legalisation is the process by which a government authority confirms the authenticity of a notary’s signature or seal. Some countries (for example outside the Hague Convention) also require a further stamp from their embassy or consulate after the Apostille stage.
How long does the process take?
Most notarial acts can be completed at a short face-to-face meeting. If an Apostille or consular legalisation is required, documents may need further processing. Timescales are confirmed once the documents have been reviewed.
Who regulates the practice?
The practice is regulated through the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury and is covered by professional indemnity insurance and a formal complaints procedure. See the Complaints page for full details.
Typical steps
- Receive and review your instructions and any overseas requirements
- Confirm what is needed (notarisation, translation, Apostille, consular stamp)
- Provide an estimate of costs and likely timescales
- Meet to verify identity, capacity and that you understand the documents
- Prepare the notarial certificate and complete any further legalisation
- Return the documents by secure post or courier, or hold for collection
Concerns about service
1. My notarial practice is regulated through the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury:
The Faculty Office 1, The Sanctuary, Westminster London SW1P 3JT Telephone: 020 7222 5381 Email: Faculty.office@1thesanctuary.com Website: www.facultyoffice.org.uk
2. If you are dissatisfied about the service you have received please do not hesitate to contact me.
3. If I am unable to resolve the matter you may then complain to the Notaries Society of which I am a member, who have a Complaints Procedure which is approved by the Faculty Office. This procedure is free to use and is designed to provide a quick resolution to any dispute.
4. In that case please write (but do not enclose any original documents) with full details of your complaint to:-
The Secretary of The Notaries Society PO Box 7655 Milton Keynes MK11 9NR
Email: secretary@thenotariessociety.org.uk Tel: 01604 758908
If you have any difficulty in making a complaint in writing, please do not hesitate to call the Notaries Society/the Faculty Office for assistance.
5. Finally, even if you have your complaint considered under the Notaries Society Approved Complaints Procedure, you may at the end of that procedure, or after a period of six months from the date you first notified me that you were dissatisfied, make your complaint to the Legal Ombudsman*, if you are not happy with the result:
Legal Ombudsman PO Box 6806 Wolverhampton WV1 9WJ Tel: 0300 555 0333 Email: enquiries@legalombudsman.org.uk Website: www.legalombudsman.org.uk
6. If you decide to make a complaint to the Legal Ombudsman you must refer your matter to the Legal Ombudsman within:-
Six months of receiving a final response to your complaint and Six years from the date of act/omission; or Three years from when you should reasonably have known there was cause for complaint (only if the act/omission took place more than six years ago) The act or omission, or when you should reasonably have known there was cause for complaint, must have been after 5th October 2010.
*certain kinds of commercial entities are not eligible to make a complaint to the Legal Ombudsman – please refer to the Legal Ombudsman Scheme Rules or consult the Faculty Office.
Redress Information
My professional indemnity insurance is in the sum of £1,000,000 (One million pounds)