What is the role of a UK solicitor in certifying documents for legalisation?

Here’s a breakdown of a UK solicitor’s role in document certification for legalisation: Certifying copies: A solicitor can examine an original document and, if satisfied it is genuine, certify a copy as a "true copy of the original". This is often essential, as the FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office), which issues apostilles, frequently will not apostille original documents like passports or driving licences. The solicitor's certification on the copy makes it acceptable for the apostille process. Witnessing signatures: A solicitor can act as a witness if a document needs to be signed for use abroad (for example, a power of attorney). They will verify the signatory's identity and confirm that the document was signed in their presence. This adds a layer of authentication required for legalisation. Certifying documents for e-Apostilles: For the electronic Apostille (e-Apostille) service, a solicitor can certify documents using an Advanced Electronic Signature (AES) or a Qualified Electronic Signature (QES). Basic electronic signatures are not accepted for the e-Apostille process. Verifying foreign documents: A UK solicitor can certify the authenticity of original foreign documents. They do this by verifying with the overseas issuing authority or institution that the document is genuine. The solicitor then provides a separate certificate, attached to the original foreign document, confirming its authenticity.

What's a UK Solicitor's Role in Certifying Documents?

When UK documents are needed abroad, they frequently require “legalisation” – a process that verifies their authenticity for foreign authorities.

UK FCDO-registered solicitors are instrumental in preparing documents for this, especially in obtaining an apostille.

Here’s a breakdown of a UK solicitor’s role in document certification for legalisation:

Certifying copies: A solicitor can examine an original document and, if satisfied it is genuine, certify a copy as a “true copy of the original”. This is often essential, as the FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office), which issues apostilles, frequently will not apostille original documents like passports or driving licences. The solicitor’s certification on the copy makes it acceptable for the apostille process.

Witnessing signatures: A solicitor can act as a witness if a document needs to be signed for use abroad (for example, a power of attorney). They will verify the signatory’s identity and confirm that the document was signed in their presence. This adds a layer of authentication required for legalisation.

Certifying documents for e-Apostilles: For the electronic Apostille (e-Apostille) service, a solicitor can certify documents using an Advanced Electronic Signature (AES) or a Qualified Electronic Signature (QES). Basic electronic signatures are not accepted for the e-Apostille process.

Verifying foreign documents: A UK solicitor can certify the authenticity of original foreign documents. They do this by verifying with the overseas issuing authority or institution that the document is genuine. The solicitor then provides a separate certificate, attached to the original foreign document, confirming its authenticity.

Why is a solicitor’s certification important for legalisation?

The FCDO Legalisation Office, which issues apostilles in the UK, primarily recognises the signatures and seals of UK public officials. A solicitor registered in the UK is considered a public official for this purpose.

By certifying a document, a solicitor provides the necessary official endorsement allowing the FCDO to issue an apostille. The apostille, in turn, verifies the solicitor’s signature and seal, making the document (or the certified copy) internationally recognised under the Hague Convention.

This is crucial in making UK documents valid for use in other countries.

A UK solicitor bridges the document originator and the FCDO, providing the necessary certification to enable the legalisation process.