A statutory declaration is a legal written document confirming a statement or fact as true. It can be used for various legal matters, and it is a criminal offence that could result in prosecution to make a false statutory declaration. Statutory declarations need to follow a set format and be witnessed by a legal professional. They are governed by The Declarations Act 1835.
When Might I need a Statutory Declaration
Statutory declarations are used to legally confirm many different things. Among the most common uses is to confirm single or unmarried status. This is usually needed to allow them to get married outside of the UK. They are also commonly used for confirmation of a name change, the release of assets in a will, and any other confirmation or ‘declaration’ of fact in a legal situation.
Statutory declarations do not have an expiration date, but you should always check with the organisation requesting the document, as it could be that they have their own expiration on these types of documents.
Statutory declarations must be signed by one of the following:
- Commissioner for Oaths
- Solicitor
- Notary Public
- Justice of the Peace
- Any other qualified person
How to Make a Statutory Declaration
Here are some simple steps to creating a statutory declaration:
- Download a template or obtain one from a legal professional.
- Edit it, so it includes all the relevant information to the statement you are making.
- Arrange the witnessing and signing of your statutory declaration with one of the named legal professionals listed above. You will need to bring your statutory declaration and some identification. This could be your passport and a utility bill.
- You can expect to pay a fee of around £5 for the service and an additional £2 for each added document or piece of evidence required to accompany the declaration.
Do I need an Apostille?
If your statutory declaration is to be used outside of the UK, then it will likely need an apostille certificate – a legal certificate that makes a document valid in another country. You should check with the country you are travelling to and the body that requires your documentation if they require an apostille and allow plenty of time to obtain your legal documents before travelling.
For more information on legal documentation, get in touch with Apostille & Legalisation Services on 02080172216.
