The Power of Attorney, a legal document, allows you to give another person the authority to act on your behalf. In Power of Attorney, you will be a donor and the authorised person will be an attorney. The authorised person will have rights to manage your finances, property, and health decisions. Power of Attorney witnessing is a vital step in making it legally valid.
Witnessing confirms that the donor has willingly signed the document and fully understands what it means. It also prevents fraud or misuse by ensuring the donor is not under pressure or influence when signing.
Why Is Power of Attorney Witnessing Required?
Witnessing provides legal assurance that the Power of Attorney has been executed correctly. The law requires the donor’s signature and the attorney’s signature to be witnessed to verify authenticity. This process safeguards both parties and gives the document legal standing in courts and official institutions. Without proper witnessing, the Power of Attorney could be challenged or rejected by banks, solicitors, or government bodies. Witnessing serves as evidence that the donor signed freely and that the document was created in good faith.
Who Can Be the Power of Attorney Witness?
The person acting as a witness must be an independent adult—someone not directly involved in the Power of Attorney. This means the witness cannot be the attorney, a family member of the donor or attorney, or anyone with a financial interest in the arrangement. The witness must be over 18, mentally capable, and physically present when the donor signs the document. They must also sign the form themselves to confirm that they have seen the donor sign it. For specific types, such as a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), a certificate provider may also be required to confirm that the donor understands their decision.
Apostille & Legalisation Services Ltd helps in Power of Attorney and Witnessing in the UK
Apostille & Legalisation Services Ltd provides expert assistance in preparing, witnessing, and legalising Power of Attorney documents across the UK. Their team ensures every signature, witness, and certification meets official requirements. They also handle document legalisation and apostille services, making the process smooth and fully compliant for use both in the UK and abroad.