Legal Document Certification & Signature Witnessing in Woking, Surrey
Certification & Signature Witnessing
Document Certification and Signature Witnessing in Woking
We offer fast, reliable and professional legal document certification and signature witnessing services, by a qualified lawyer, Clara Westbrook, ideal for individuals, estate agents, businesses and property professionals across Woking, Weybridge, and Surrey.
“Did you know many clients are told they need a notary for a wide range of documents, including Irish and South African passports. In most UK cases, this is unnecessary. We will, however, confirm the correct level of signing before you book.”
Services we offer
Service | Fee | VAT |
Witnessing a signature | £30 | VAT Exempt |
Certifying a copy of a document | £20 per copy | +20% |
ID1 form certification | £50–£75 | +20% |
Signing or helping complete a TR1 (transfer of property) form | £75–£150 | +20% |
Certifying Power of Attorney / LPA | £30–£60 | +20% |
Witnessing declarations or insurance forms | £15–£30 | VAT Exempt |
Witnessing a change of name form (Deed Poll) | £60 per signature | +20% |
Witnessing a signature on a Deposit Protection Scheme | £60 per signature | VAT Exempt |
Witnessing a signature on a Commercial Lease | £20 | VAT Exempt |
Please note: Some services are VAT exempt under the Commissioner for Oaths’ rules. Where VAT applies, it is charged at the standard rate of 20% and will be clearly itemised on your invoice.
Before your appointment – please note: our solicitors will only administer the oath, statutory declaration or certify your document. No advice will be given. Bookings in the office in advance only.
- Your document must be ready and your photographic ID with you. We do not photocopy documents.
- Please ensure you have carefully read and understood the document you are signing.
- The solicitor cannot provide any legal advice or offer any opinion in relation to the document you are signing.
Content reviewed by Clara Westbrook
Clara Westbrook is a qualified solicitor and non-practising barrister with over 25 years’ experience in data protection and commercial law.
She is the founder of Westbrook Data Protection Services Ltd, a consultancy providing GDPR compliance advice, DSAR support, audits and contract reviews for organisations across the UK. Clara has previously held senior legal and compliance roles at Burberry, WarnerMedia, Richemont and IMS Health.
Get in touch
If you have any questions about our services call us on +44 (0)79769 39016 (9:00 am – 6:00 pm UK time). If you would like us to call or email you, please leave your details, and we will be in touch.
Westbrook Data Protection Services Limited
2nd Floor, Midas House, 62 Goldsworth Road Woking, Surrey GU21 6LQ
Bookings in the office in advance only.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a solicitor to certify a document?
Our fees for certifying documents usually range from £20 to £50 per signature. The exact cost depends on the type of document and how much detail is needed, as some certifications are more involved than others.
In some cases, we may charge per document or per page, particularly where a document is longer or a specific form of certification is required. Prices can also be higher if you need a document certified at short notice.
Some certification services are VAT-exempt under the Commissioner for Oaths rules. Where VAT does apply, it’s charged at the standard rate of 20% and will always be clearly shown on your invoice.
Can a solicitor certify documents?
Yes. A solicitor can certify documents as a true copy of the original, and this is widely accepted by organisations in the UK and overseas.That said, some organisations may also accept certification from other professionals, such as accountants or regulated advisers. The rules can vary depending on who is requesting the document and what it’s being used for.
For that reason, it’s always worth checking the guidance or documentation carefully beforehand, as this will usually explain exactly who can certify the document and what wording is required. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to talk it through with you before you book.
What are the rules for signing a signature?
The person signing the document must do so in person, in front of the solicitor or authorised professional. Signatures cannot be witnessed remotely or signed in advance (unless the document specifically allows electronic signing). The solicitor must:
- Confirm the signer’s identity (usually by checking valid photo ID)
- Watch the document being signed
- Sign and date the document themselves
- Add their name, professional status, and contact details
The signature must be:
- Made using the signer’s usual signature
- Signed on the correct page and in the correct place
- Dated correctly (often the same day it is witnessed)
Some documents also require specific wording or placement of the witness signature. Because requirements vary, it’s important to check the instructions from the organisation requesting the document before attending your appointment.
If you’re unsure whether your document needs witnessing, certification, or a different type of signing altogether, we can advise you before you attend.
Can a solicitor certify documents?
Yes, a solicitor can certify documents as a true copy of the original, commonly accepted in the UK and overseas. However, some organisations may accept certification from other professionals like accountants. It’s important to check the specific guidance or requirements from the requesting organisation to ensure the certification meets their criteria.