What Is a Solicitor-Signed Document? A solicitor-signed document is any document that has been officially signed, and where applicable stamped, by a UK solicitor authorised to verify, certify or witness documents.Our Next Day UK Apostille Service provides official legalisation of solicitor-signed documents through the FCDO apostille service for international use. What It Means When a solicitor signs a document, they are confirming one of the following: Witnessing a signature — confirming they saw you sign it. Certifying a copy — confirming a photocopy matches the original. Drafting and signing — preparing a legal document and signing in their professional capacity. Common Examples Certified copies of passports, birth, or marriage certificates Academic qualifications Statutory declarations or affidavits Contracts or legal agreements Powers of attorney Property-related deeds and documents Why It Matters for Apostille Services Many solicitor-signed documents can be apostilled directly by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) without extra verification — if the solicitor is registered in the FCDO’s database of recognised legal professionals. If your solicitor is on this register, the process is: Faster — no extra checks needed. Simpler — the FCDO can confirm authenticity immediately. Our team can: Check if your solicitor is FCDO-registered Advise on the fastest way to prepare your documents for apostille Handle the submission for you to ensure no delays
