A Notary Public plays a critical role in the legal and business landscape of Nigeria. Whether you are dealing with contracts, international transactions, or legal documents requiring authentication, a Notary Public ensures their validity and credibility. Understanding their functions and how to access their services can help individuals and businesses navigate legal formalities seamlessly.
Who is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public is a legal practitioner appointed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria to perform notarial acts. These acts include certifying documents, administering oaths, authenticating signatures, and witnessing affidavits. Their role ensures that documents intended for use domestically or internationally carry legal weight.
Functions of a Notary Public in Nigeria
Notaries Public perform several essential duties, including:
Authentication of Documents – They certify the genuineness of documents such as contracts, powers of attorney, affidavits, and deeds.
Administration of Oaths – They administer oaths and affirmations for affidavits, statutory declarations, and sworn statements.
Verification of Signatures – A Notary Public verifies and authenticates the signatures of individuals and entities on legal documents.
Certification of True Copies – They certify true copies of original documents for legal and official purposes.
Attestation for International Use – Notaries Public authenticate documents for use outside Nigeria, including applications for visas, immigration, and international business transactions.
Notarial Protests – They handle protests on dishonored negotiable instruments such as checks and promissory notes.
Why Notarization is Important
Notarization provides an added layer of trust and authenticity to documents, ensuring they are legally recognized. It prevents fraud, confirms the identity of signatories, and enhances the credibility of documents in legal proceedings, financial transactions, and international dealings.
How to Access Notary Public Services in Nigeria
To utilize the services of a Notary Public in Nigeria, follow these steps:
Locate a Notary Public – Notaries Public are usually senior lawyers appointed to this role. They can be found in law firms, corporate offices, and government institutions.
Prepare Your Documents – Ensure you have the original documents and any necessary identification before visiting a Notary Public.
Verification and Notarization – The Notary Public will verify your identity, assess the documents, and notarize them with a seal and signature.
Pay the Required Fee – Notarial services come with prescribed fees, which may vary based on the document type and complexity of the service.
Confirm International Acceptance – If the document is meant for use abroad, you may need additional authentication, such as an apostille or embassy legalization.
Conclusion: Get Your Documents Notarized Today!
Whether you are an individual, business owner, or corporate entity, notarization is a crucial step in ensuring the legality and authenticity of your documents. At 1st Attorneys, we provide reliable, fast, and professional notary services to meet your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get your documents notarized hassle-free!