Discontinuation of Notary Public Services
Effective Wednesday, 16 July 2025, our firm will no longer offer Notary Public services. We understand that these services are important for many personal, commercial, and international transactions, and we apologise for any inconvenience this change may cause.
If you require notarial assistance, please contact our office and we will refer you to one of our trusted partner providers who can assist promptly and professionally.
Understanding Notary Public Services
Notary public services play a key role in ensuring the authenticity and legal validity of documents. A notary public is a qualified legal professional who is authorised to witness signatures, administer oaths, certify documents, and help prevent fraud.
These services are commonly required for:
- Property transactions
- International business or personal documentation
- Affidavits, declarations, and sworn statements
- Powers of attorney and other legal instruments
- Certified copies of identity or corporate documents
The involvement of a notary provides an essential level of assurance. By verifying identity, confirming the voluntary signing of documents, and certifying that documents are genuine, notaries help ensure that your documents are accepted within Australia and internationally.
Notary Public vs Justice of the Peace (JP)
In Queensland, both Notaries Public and Justices of the Peace perform document verification tasks, although their responsibilities differ in scope and authority.
- Notaries Public
Notaries are legally qualified practitioners with additional accreditation. They are authorised to witness, certify, and authenticate documents for international use. Their work is recognised globally and is often required for overseas transactions or cross border legal matters.
- Justices of the Peace (JPs)
JPs are state appointed volunteers who assist with routine, domestic document verification tasks such as witnessing signatures, administering oaths, and certifying copies for use within Australia. Their role is community focused and does not extend to international documentation.
While a JP may be suitable for many everyday certification needs, only a notary public can authenticate documents intended for international use or more complex legal procedures.
Key Functions of a Notary Public
Although we no longer provide these services, clients may still benefit from understanding the typical responsibilities of a notary public.
Document Verification
Ensuring the person signing a document is correctly identified and understands the document they are executing.
Administering Oaths and Affirmations
Assisting with sworn statements, affidavits, and other legally binding declarations.
International Document Authentication
Preparing and certifying documents for use overseas, which may include facilitating apostille or legalisation processes.
Witnessing Signatures
Confirming that signatures on contracts, deeds, or powers of attorney are genuine and made voluntarily.
Certifying Copies
Confirming that a copy of a document is a true and accurate reproduction of the original.
Fraud Prevention
Providing a safeguard against identity misuse, document fraud, and improper execution.
Assistance Finding a Notary Public
Although Notary Public services are no longer available at our firm, we remain committed to helping clients find the right support. Please contact our office and we will arrange a referral to one of our trusted notary partners.
A Notary Public is a senior legal practitioner who is authorised to witness signatures, certify documents, and administer oaths for use both in Australia and internationally. Unlike a Justice of the Peace (JP), a Notary’s seal and signature are legally recognised overseas. A Notary Public is a legal practitioner who is authorised to witness signatures, certify documents and administer oaths recognised in Australia and internationally.
No. While JPs and police officers can witness some documents in Australia, they are not qualified as Notaries Public. Only a practicing lawyer who has been appointed by a Supreme Court as a Notary Public can perform notarial acts that are recognised internationally. JPs and police officers are not a Notary Public. They can witness some documents in Australia they are not appointed by a Supreme Court and are not qualified to witness documents to be recognised internationally.
When a document is notarised, it means a Notary Public has officially verified its authenticity, or witnessed a person’s signature on the document. This process is often required for legal or commercial documents that are to be used overseas. A notarised document, is a document that has been officially verified or witnessed by a Notary Public. The process is often required for legal or commercial documents that are to be used overseas.
Notarial fees vary depending on the type and number of documents. At Springfield Legals, we offer transparent and competitive pricing. You can contact our office directly for a quote based on your specific requirements. Fees vary depending on the type and number of documents to be notarised. At GLG Legal Springfield, we have transparent and competitive pricing and you can contact us directly for a quote based on your specific needs.
Online notarisation is generally not accepted for international documents. Most foreign authorities require documents to be physically signed and stamped by a Notary Public. At Springfield Legals, we provide in-person appointments to ensure your documents meet international legal standards. For international documents, online notarisation is not accepted. Foreign authorities require documents to be physically signed and stamped by a qualified Notary Public. At GLG Legal Springfield, we provide in-person appointments for Notary services.
