Understanding the Role of a Notary Public in Ireland: What You Need to Know

Notaries Public play a crucial role in ensuring that documents are legally recognized and accepted, especially when going beyond national borders. If you live in or near Galway and need notarial services, this guide explains everything you need to know about the function of a Notary Public, the services offered, and how to prepare for your appointment.

What Does a Notary Public Do?

A Notary Public, such as David Mulligan from Galway Notary Now, is a legal official authorized to carry out various functions, which include:

• Verifying identities of signatories
• Witnessing signatures
• Certifying true copies of original documents
• Preparing legal attestations like Powers of Attorney

This verification is vital for documents intended for use outside of Ireland, as many foreign authorities require notarisation before further legalisation or apostille.

Types of Documents Commonly Notarised

At Galway Notary Now, various documents can be notarised, including:

• Powers of Attorney (for use overseas)
• Certified copies of identification (passports, IDs)
• Educational certificates
• Declarations and affidavits
• Documents for property transactions abroad
• Bank and medical documents

Make sure to consult with the notary about the specific needs and requirements for your documents prior to your appointment.

How Much Does Notarisation Cost?

Understanding the costs associated with notarial services is crucial. At Galway Notary Now, we pride ourselves on our fee transparency, ensuring you know exactly what to expect:

• Minimum fee for single certification: €60
• Discounts available:
• 10% off for students, unwaged, and refugees
• 20% off for multiple certifications
• Charitable contributions: €10 from every consultation goes to Médecins Sans Frontières

This makes our pricing not just competitive but also socially responsible.

Preparing for Your Appointment

To ensure a smooth notarisation process, make sure to bring the following items to your appointment:

• Your original government-issued ID (passport or driving license)
• Proof of address (like a recent utility bill)
• Original documents that require notarisation
• Any specific instructions from the receiving authority

Remember, documents that require signatures need to be signed in the presence of the notary.

Do You Need an Apostille?

If your document is destined for a country that is part of the Hague Convention, you will likely need an apostille. This certificate serves as a confirmation from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) that the notary's seal and signature are authentic. The DFA charges a €40 fee for this service.

Who Can Use Notary Services?

Our notary services are available to everyone, including:

• Irish citizens
• Non-Irish nationals who can present valid identification

Be mindful that documents requiring apostille or legalisation may need to have a connection to Ireland.

The Importance of Record Keeping

At Galway Notary Now, we maintain detailed records of all identification and notarisation activities, complying with regulations to keep this information for at least six years. This ensures the integrity of our services and provides you with peace of mind.

Conclusion

Notarial services, such as those offered by Galway Notary Now, are essential for anyone needing documents authenticated for use abroad. With services tailored to your needs, fixed pricing, and an emphasis on charitable contributions, we're here to support you on your notarial journey. Book your appointment today to ensure your documents are ready for international use!