A Notary (or sometimes Notary Public) is a qualified legal professional who’s role is essential for international matters like buying property overseas, dealing with foreign estates, or sending legal documents to another country. They're authorised to officially witness signatures, certify documents, and verify the authenticity of legal paperwork for use abroad.
In England and Wales, notaries are regulated separately from solicitors and are appointed by the Court of Faculties of the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Unlike solicitors, notaries focus more on verifying documents rather than providing ongoing legal advice. Their job is to ensure the paperwork is legally recognised and properly prepared for use in another jurisdiction – giving it the same legal standing overseas as it would have in the UK.