Who Can Witness a Statutory Declaration in the UK?
A statutory declaration is a legally binding statement confirming that certain facts are true. Governed by the Statutory Declarations Act 1835, this document is commonly used for official and legal purposes where no other formal legal proceedings are required and dicover Who Can Witness a Statutory Declaration in the UK at Notary Quote. To ensure its validity, a statutory declaration must be signed in the presence of an authorised witness.
Notary Quote connects individuals and businesses with professionals who can witness and certify statutory declarations across the UK. Whether you need to submit a declaration form for legal, business, or personal purposes, our network of certified providers ensures compliance with UK laws.
What Does a Notary Public Do?
A notary public is a qualified legal professional, authorised to authenticate and certify documents for use abroad. Notaries are integral to international transactions, ensuring the validity of deeds, affidavits, and other legal documents.
How to Complete a Statutory Declaration Form
Step 1: Obtain the Correct Declaration Form
Step 2: Fill in the Details
Step 3: Sign the Declaration in Front of a Witness
Step 4: Obtain Certification
Post-Qualification Requirements
Newly appointed notaries are subject to a two-year supervision period by an experienced practitioner. During this time, they must:
- Attend annual courses on notarial practice.
- Maintain professional indemnity insurance.
- Adhere to the Notaries Practice Rules 2019 and other regulations.
Who Can Witness a Statutory Declaration in the UK?
A Commissioner for Oaths is appointed by the Lord Chancellor and has the authority to administer oaths and statutory declarations for court-related matters. Many solicitors automatically hold this title if they have a valid practising certificate.
A solicitor who is registered and holds a valid practising certificate is legally permitted to witness a statutory declaration. If the declaration form is for use abroad, it may require additional notarisation.
A notary public is a legal professional authorised to authenticate and certify documents for international use. They can witness statutory declarations, particularly for those needing validation outside the UK.
A Justice of the Peace (JP) is a citizen appointed to oversee minor legal matters, including witnessing statutory declarations. They are commonly found in magistrates’ courts.
Certain other professionals may be authorised to witness a statutory declaration, including:
- Legal executives
- Licensed conveyancers
- Authorised advocates and litigators
- British Consular or Diplomatic Officers (for declarations made abroad)
- High-ranking members of the armed forces (Major, Lieutenant-Commander, or Squadron Leader)
When is a Statutory Declaration Required?
1. Civil Partnership and Marriage
If you are entering a civil partnership, some authorities may require a statutory declaration to confirm your marital status.
2. Name Changes
A statutory declaration can confirm a legal name change if you do not have a deed poll.
3. Business and Legal Transactions
Businesses may need a statutory declaration to confirm their financial standing, corporate transactions, or directorship details.
4. Immigration and Visa Applications
Applicants may need a statutory declaration to verify personal details or confirm missing supporting documents.
5. Lost or Misplaced Documents
If you have lost an important legal document, a statutory declaration may be required to confirm its contents or existence.
Statutory Declarations for Gender Recognition and Civil Partnerships
A statutory declaration is required for gender recognition certificate applications and civil partnership declarations:
- Gender Recognition Certificate: Applicants must submit a statutory declaration confirming their lived gender and transition details.
- Civil Partnerships: If you are married or in a civil partnership, a statutory declaration may be necessary to confirm eligibility or marital status.
Frequently Asked Questions
The process typically takes 2–3 years, including academic and professional training.
Yes, solicitors can qualify as notaries by completing the required training and meeting the Faculty Office’s standards.