At some point in your life, you may need to make a statutory declaration. Here, we explore the reasons behind this requirement, where it occurs, and how you can go about making one.
Why might I need a statutory declaration?
You may need to swear a statutory declaration for various reasons, including non-legal matters like obtaining a replacement degree certificate from your university.
In more legal contexts, you might require a statutory declaration when selling a property with compromised access, where you are asked to formally assert that you have accessed the property over a third party’s land for an extended period without issue. Another example is when entering into a commercial lease outside the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, where a statutory declaration confirms your understanding of the lease’s consequences and precludes future disputes on this matter. The purpose of such declarations is to provide formal, court-reliant evidence of your position or understanding in these specific situations.
Where do I swear the declaration?
Swearing a statutory declaration necessitates the presence of an independent witness. This means that for legal declarations, you cannot have your own solicitor (or anyone from their firm) or the opposing party’s solicitor present. Instead, you must seek an independent third-party solicitor.
Any local solicitor should be capable of assisting you with swearing the statutory declaration. Although the process is brief, it’s important to call ahead and schedule an appointment with a solicitor beforehand.
How do I swear to the declaration?
The solicitor will request that you sign the document you are swearing, and then you will be asked to repeat after the solicitor to confirm that the contents of the declaration are true.
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
Please ensure you bring a copy of the declaration with you to your appointment, and make sure it’s completed where necessary beforehand.
The solicitor will charge a fee of £5.00 for each document you swear, with an additional £2.00 for each annexure, such as a plan, attached to the document. Please bring the exact amount required in cash to your appointment.
Lastly, remember to bring your identification (ID) with you.
Legal Witnesses
If you’re looking to have a statutory declaration witnessed, please call us on 01625 460281, get in touch by email, or use the online chat below.
