What current legal sector trends are you observing? As the world is changing, I have seen the use of more of electronic means to assist the notary. I am pleased to confirm I can also offer the service of e-notarisation of some documents. I am also noticing this is in private practice at KB Solicitors, in that many documents are now sent and completed electronically rather than as it was in the ‘old days’ via post. I have also noticed a trend in the use of social media platforms to not only precure work but also to promote and market oneself. This is not only done through Linkedin but also through other social platforms as Twitter, YouTube and Instagram. I feel this is important as many people use these platforms and this is a good way for lawyer or law firms to interact and communicate with clients or potential clients. Due in part to the aftereffects of the pandemic and hybrid working, prompting a rise in the use of ZOOM and other platforms, some networking events are also being held ‘virtually’, which requires a different skill set of interacting with people rather than seeing and meeting people in person. What advice would you give to a less experienced legal professional looking to become a notary? Be prepared. Whilst it is a very rewarding profession dealing with various types of documents from all over the world, it is also a very challenging profession and a notary must always be diligent and maintain all checks and balances in place to ensure that they are acting in accordance with the rules that govern a notary. Always remember: never be afraid to ask the client more questions, as you must always fully understand what you are doing and what you are being asked to do. As I had drummed into my many times by accomplished notaries in the past, a notary primary role is to act as a ‘gatekeeper’, always ensuring that what is being asked to be done and what is done is correct and to ensure (as you would when you have your solicitor ‘hat’ on) that you have complied with all antimoney laundering and capacity checks that are required. the details of directors of companies based in England and Wales can be added to companies overseas. In the past I have also been asked to verify a company director’s signature on behalf of banks overseas so that the company could make use of all banking facilities that might be open to them overseas. Have you noticed any significant changes in the kind of work that you have been called upon to undertake since you first became a notary public? Due to the pandemic, I have seen a large increase in the use of power of attorneys as clients are more reluctant to travel. Brexit has also had an impact on the kind of work we have been asked to undertake. Since the United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU, I have noticed more demand in documents to be notarised which were not required when I first became a notary (which was obviously pre-Brexit), such as visa applications and banking-related documents. FEATURE OF THE MONTH 17 Always remember: never be afraid to ask the client more questions.
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