Notary Public Services in Kenya

Notary Public Services in Kenya

A Notary Public in Kenya is an Advocate in Kenya appointed by the Chief Justice to perform specific legal functions, primarily for the verification of documents for international use.

Key services include:

• Attestation of Documents: This involves certifying the execution of legal documents such as contracts, agreements, and powers of attorney intended for international use.
• Certification of Legal Documents: A notary public verifies that documents such as wills, deeds, contracts, and agreements are genuine and properly executed. These certifications are often required for use abroad.
• Administration of Oaths: A notary can administer oaths and affirmations for use in legal proceedings outside Kenya.
• Witnessing Affidavits and Statutory Declarations: The notary can witness the signing of affidavits and statutory declarations that are meant to be used internationally.
• Certification of Copies: A notary public can certify copies of original documents as true and accurate for use outside Kenya. This is a crucial service when original documents cannot be presented but certified copies are required.
• Preparation of Legal Documents: A notary public may also prepare legal documents, such as power of attorney, to be used in other jurisdictions.

Why You Might Need Notary Public Services in Kenya

Notary public services are crucial in various situations where Kenyan citizens or businesses are interacting with international institutions, governments, or legal systems. Some of the main reasons why one might require the services of a notary public in Kenya include:

1. Cross-Border Transactions: If you are engaging in international business or personal transactions, such as buying property abroad or engaging in cross-border business deals, documents must often be certified by a notary public.
2. Foreign Embassies and Consulates: Notaries are frequently called upon to notarize documents for presentation at foreign embassies or consulates, including visas, business registrations, and legal certifications.
3. Power of Attorney for International Use: If you are granting power of attorney to someone overseas to act on your behalf, the document must be notarized.
4. Legal Proceedings Abroad: Whether it’s for civil or criminal proceedings, documents such as affidavits, witness statements, or legal contracts that are being presented abroad must often be notarized to be accepted by foreign courts.
5. International Wills and Estates: When dealing with estates or property in multiple countries, legal documents such as wills and inheritance-related paperwork may need to be notarized for acceptance outside Kenya.
6. Educational and Professional Certifications: Many institutions, especially universities and professional bodies abroad, require certified copies of academic transcripts, degrees, or professional licenses before granting admission or recognition.

What do you need to bring to the Notary Public in Kenya?

When you require the services of a notary public in Kenya, the procedure is straightforward:

1. Bring Original Documents: The parties requiring notary services must present the original versions of the documents to be certified.
2. Identification: Each person involved must carry valid identification documents such as a national ID card or passport.
3. Physical Appearance: In most cases, the parties to the document must appear before the notary in person to have the documents notarized.

The role of a notary public is critical for facilitating international legal and business transactions. Without their certification and attestation, many international legal documents would not hold up in foreign jurisdictions, making them essential for individuals and businesses engaged in global dealings.

Do you require Notary Public Services in Kenya? Please contact us on info@swkadvocates.com