Wills & Legal Documents

Attestation & Certification

When a document needs to be certified as a true copy, or a signature needs to be witnessed by a solicitor, getting it done correctly the first time saves a great deal of trouble. We certify copies and attest signatures at a clear fixed fee, usually the same day.

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Getting your documents accepted

Different situations need different steps. A certified copy proves that a document is a true copy of the original, and is often requested by banks, universities, employers, and government departments. Attestation is different. It confirms that a signature on a document is genuine, because a solicitor watched it being signed.

Both are carried out in person by a solicitor at our South Wimbledon office. Bring the original document and photographic identification. If you are not sure which you need, tell us what the document is and who is asking for it, and we will confirm before you pay for anything.

Document services

Available at our South Wimbledon branch, with same-day walk-in for certification and attestation.

Document CertificationA solicitor-certified true copy of an original document, for use where a certified copy is required.Learn more Attestation of SignatureSolicitor verification that a signature on a document is genuine, witnessed in person.Learn more ID1 Form CertificationSolicitor verification of your identity on HM Land Registry Form ID1, for property matters handled without a conveyancer.Learn more

Compare your options at a glance

A short summary of each service above. Our fees are agreed in writing before any work begins. Home Office, court and other third-party fees are extra and listed on our price list.

ServiceKey pointFee

Document CertificationWho it is forAnyone asked for a certified copy of a document, or for their identity to be certified.£10 + VAT

Attestation of SignatureWho it is forAnyone asked to sign a document in front of a solicitor, or to have their signature witnessed.£10 + VAT

ID1 Form CertificationWho it is forIndividuals dealing with HM Land Registry on a property matter, with no conveyancer acting for them.£180 + VAT

Key facts

The main rules that apply to attestation & certification, with the law or official source for each.

A certified copy confirms that the copy matches the original document shown to the solicitor. It does not confirm that the original itself is genuine.
Standard certification practice
We need to see the original document. A copy cannot be certified from another copy.
Standard certification practice
HM Land Registry uses form ID1 to verify the identity of a person who is not represented by a conveyancer. It must be completed by a conveyancer, such as a solicitor.
HM Land Registry, Practice Guide 67
Many organisations ask for the certifier's name, firm, regulator number and the date. Our certifications include these details.
Common requirement of banks and official bodies

Correct as at October 2026. Rules and fees can change at short notice, so we confirm what applies to you before any application is made. This is general information, not legal advice on your case.

Common questions

Document certification is where a solicitor checks a copy of a document against the original and signs and stamps the copy to confirm it is a true copy. It reassures the organisation asking for it that the copy is genuine, without you having to part with your original. Read more about document certification →

Attestation is the formal witnessing of a signature. A solicitor confirms your identity, watches you sign, and then signs to attest that the signature is genuinely yours and was made in their presence. It gives the document an independent, professional witness that the receiving organisation can rely on. Read more about attestation of signature →

Form ID1 is HM Land Registry's Certificate of Identity for a Private Individual. It confirms your identity when you take part in a property transaction and no conveyancer is acting for you, and it helps protect against property fraud. Read more about id1 form certification →

Not sure what your document needs?

The right step depends on what the document is and who has asked for it. Tell us what you have and what it is for, and we will confirm exactly what is required and the fixed fee, with no obligation.

Request a callback 020 8543 3302

Regulated adviceAuthorised and regulated by the SRA, No. 490744.
Fixed feesAgreed in writing before we begin, so you are never surprised.
South Wimbledon branchSame-day walk-in for certification and attestation.