A notary public is a public official authorised by the government to witness the signing of important documents, verify the identities of the parties involved to prevent fraud and ensure the parties involved in the signing of sensitive documents do so willingly and under no duress. As an experienced lawyer who has been acting as a notary public for many years, and who has been providing notary services in Singapore. I understand the significance of finding a notary public who is qualified, reliable and professional. Whether you are acknowledging signatures, witnessing affidavits, or certifying copies of documents, the importance of choosing the right notary cannot be overstated. It is crucial not to entrust this responsibility to just anyone. To make an informed decision, you need to consider a multitude of factors. Many clients have told me that they prefer “notary publics near me”, “affordable notary publics” and “those who can work on the weekends”. While those are all crucial factors, there are more essential considerations that one should make when choosing a notary public. In this article, I will walk you through the steps on how to find the right notary singapore for your needs.
Credentials
Always verify that any potential notary public has the necessary credentials. They should be commissioned and possess a valid notary license. Substantiating credentials is a non-negotiable first step in ensuring that your notary public operates within the law and is recognised by the government of Singapore. A notary public's licence is renewed yearly subject to the Singapore Academy of Law's approval, meaning that their credentials are always up to date.
Experience and Expertise
Having a valid notary license is only one aspect of being a competent notary public. A great notary should also have experience and expertise in the field. Ensure that your chosen notary has been practising for a considerable amount of time, as this will give you confidence in their abilities to handle your documents. An experienced notary public will also be able to handle each case with the required professionalism and understand complex legal jargon or situations. I have over 25 years of experience in the field as a lawyer, notary public and commissioner for oaths and possess a wealth of knowledge in various areas of law, making me well-equipped to handle any document that requires notarisation.
Availability and Flexibility
It is vital to find a notary public who can accommodate your schedule and location. Many individuals require notary services outside of the usual 9-5 working hours, so finding a notary who can work on weekends or evenings can be a valuable asset. It would also be helpful to choose a notary who can travel to your location, whether it be your office, home, or a public place. This is especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot take time off work to visit a notary's office during regular working hours. At Notary Public Singapore, our services are available throughout the week, including weekends, and I am willing to travel to my clients' preferred locations for their convenience.
Reputation
A good notary public should have a solid reputation. Do your research and read reviews or ask for recommendations from friends and family who have used notary services in the past. A reputable notary public will have positive feedback from satisfied clients, which can give you peace of mind knowing that your documents are in safe hands. Notary Public Singapore has 4.9 stars on Google with over 100 reviews.
Pricing
While cost may not be the deciding factor, it is undeniably an important consideration. Notary fees are often regulated, but they can vary. Make sure to inquire about prices upfront to avoid any unexpected charges. Some notaries may offer flat rates for certain services, while others charge per signature. Look for a pricing structure that is transparent and aligns with the norm in your area.
Efficiency
A good notary public values the efficiency of their service. They should be organised, punctual, and able to guide you smoothly through the process. A notary who is proficient and values your time will ensure that the notarisation process is completed without undue delay. At Notary Public Singapore, we offer on-the-spot processing, with a processing time of about 30 minutes. This ensures that our clients can get their documents notarised quickly and efficiently.
Finding a Notary Public in Singapore
Finding the right notary public for your needs requires careful consideration and research. With the help of this article, you now have a better understanding of what to look out for when choosing a notary public. Remember to prioritise credentials, experience and expertise, availability and flexibility, reputation, pricing, and efficiency. By doing so, you can ensure that your important documents are notarised accurately and efficiently by a qualified notary public. Remember, it is always better to take the time to find the right notary rather than rushing into a decision and potentially facing legal issues down the line. At Notary Public Singapore, we pride ourselves on providing reliable and professional notary services, and we are committed to ensuring that our client’s needs are met with utmost care and efficiency.
If you’re in need of notary services Singapore, it’s essential to select someone who is well-versed in local legal requirements. Whether you need to notarise documents for overseas use or for domestic purposes, notary Singapore professionals can help. It is always better to take the time to find the right notary public rather than rushing into a decision and potentially facing legal issues down the line.