Question 1

How much does it cost to get a solicitor to certify a document?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

Can a solicitor certify documents?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

What are the rules for signing a signature?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

Can a solicitor certify documents?

Accepted Answer

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.

Service	Fee	VAT
Witnessing a signature	£30	VAT Exempt
Certifying a copy of a document	£30 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

Legal Document Certification & Signature Witnessing in Woking, Surrey

Certification & Signature Witnessing

We offer fast, reliable and professional legal document certification and signature witnessing services, by a qualified solicitor, Clara Westbrook, ideal for individuals, estate agents, businesses and property professionals across Woking, Weybridge, and Surrey.

If You Need a Document Signing or Witnessing, You’re in the Right Place.

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