Statutory Declaration
Welcome to Wharf Notaries, your trusted notarial service provider in the UK. Our experienced notaries are dedicated to assisting you with statutory declarations, ensuring they are legally recognised both domestically and internationally. Below, you’ll find essential information about statutory declarations and our efficient notarisation process.
A statutory declaration must be witnessed by an authorised professional, such as a notary public. Their signature certifies that the document can be used in legal contexts within the UK. To have your statutory declaration signed, you can book an appointment at our offices in London Victoria, Canary Wharf, or Surrey.
If you need to use your statutory declaration abroad, we will also notarise it to ensure foreign parties recognise the document as authentic.
What is a Statutory Declaration?
A statutory declaration is a formal statement made to affirm the truth of certain facts. It is commonly used in legal contexts when there is no alternative evidence available. The declaration must be made before a person authorised to administer oaths, such as a solicitor or notary public.
You may need to produce a statutory declaration in the following circumstances:
- Legally adopting a new name.
- Providing a statement of gender recognition as a transgender or non-binary individual.
- Lacking documents evidencing your nationality, marital status, or other aspects of your identity.
- Working in an institution dealing with finances related to estates.
- Making significant company statements that may have legal implications.
A statutory declaration is similar to an affidavit but does not involve the swearing of an oath.
Finding a Witness for Your Statutory Declaration
The witness for your statutory declaration must have the authority to administer oaths and be independent of the matter in question. If you are represented by a solicitor, they cannot sign the declaration. Instead, you can visit a notary public, like Wharf Notaries, to have your document witnessed.
Process to Legalise a Statutory Declaration
The process for legalising your statutory declaration is straightforward and includes the following steps:
- Prepare Your Declaration: Write your statutory declaration in clear language using the template provided by the UK Government.
- Visit a Notary Public: Book an appointment or drop into our office in London Victoria, Canary Wharf, or Surrey.
- Notarisation: One of our notaries will witness your signature on the declaration.
- Legalisation for Use Abroad: If you need to use your statutory declaration overseas, we will arrange for further legalisation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Statutory Declarations
What is a statutory declaration?
A statutory declaration is a formal statement made to affirm the truth of certain facts. It is often used in legal contexts when there is no alternative evidence available.
Who can witness a statutory declaration?
A statutory declaration must be witnessed by an authorised professional, such as a notary public or a solicitor who is not invd in the matter being declared.
When might I need a statutory declaration?
You may need a statutory declaration for various reasons, including legally adopting a new name, providing a statement of gender recognition, confirming your nationality or marital status, or making significant statements in a business context.
How do I prepare a statutory declaration?
To prepare a statutory declaration, you should write your declaration in clear, straightforward language using the template provided by the UK Government. It should clearly state the facts you are affirming.
Can I use a statutory declaration abroad?
Yes, if you need to use your statutory declaration overseas, you can have it notarised to ensure it is recognised as authentic by foreign parties.
What is the difference between a statutory declaration and an affidavit?
While both documents are used to affirm the truth of statements, a statutory declaration does not require the swearing of an oath, whereas an affidavit involves an oath taken before an authorised person.
How long does the notarisation process take?
The notarisation process is generally quick. Once you visit our office and provide the necessary documents, we can often notarise your statutory declaration on the same day.
What should I bring to my appointment for notarisation?
When visiting for notarisation, bring your prepared statutory declaration and a form of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license. If you have any supporting documents, it’s also helpful to bring those along.