People often assume that a solicitor can do everything a Notary Public does, or that the two roles are interchangeable. They are not. While many Notaries Public (including Hugh Phelan) are also qualified solicitors, the two roles serve different functions and require different qualifications. This guide explains the distinction.
What Does a Solicitor Do?
A solicitor is a legal professional who provides legal advice and representation to clients. In Ireland, solicitors are regulated by the Law Society of Ireland and must hold a practising certificate. Their work includes conveyancing, litigation, family law, probate, commercial law, and general legal advice. Solicitors can also act as Commissioners for Oaths (witnessing domestic sworn documents).
What Does a Notary Public Do?
A Notary Public is a specialist legal professional appointed by the Chief Justice to authenticate documents for international use. Their primary function is to verify identities, witness signatures, certify copies, and apply their official notarial seal — which carries worldwide recognition. Notaries Public are members of the Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland.
Key Differences
- Appointment: Solicitors are admitted by the Law Society. Notaries are appointed by the Chief Justice.
- Qualifications: Solicitors need a legal degree and the Law Society professional practice course. Notaries need those plus the Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice.
- Function: Solicitors advise and represent. Notaries authenticate and certify.
- Recognition: A solicitor's witnessing is domestic. A notary's seal is international.
- Regulation: Solicitors are regulated by the Law Society. Notaries are regulated by the Faculty of Notaries Public and the Chief Justice.
When You Need a Solicitor
- Legal advice on any matter
- Court representation
- Conveyancing (buying/selling property in Ireland)
- Drafting contracts, wills, and legal documents
- Family law matters
When You Need a Notary Public
- Documents for use in another country
- Notarised powers of attorney for foreign property purchases
- Certified copies for foreign authorities
- Documents requiring an apostille
- Embassy or consulate requirements
The Advantage of a Dual-Qualified Professional
Hugh Phelan is both a qualified Solicitor and a Notary Public. This dual qualification means he can provide legal advice on your documents AND notarise them for international use — all in one appointment. This is particularly valuable for complex matters such as international property transactions, where both legal advice and notarisation are needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Notary Public the same as a solicitor?
No. Different roles, different qualifications, different functions. Many notaries are also solicitors, but the roles are distinct.
Can any solicitor notarise documents?
No. Only an appointed Notary Public can notarise documents.
Do I need a solicitor or a notary for documents going abroad?
A Notary Public for the notarisation. You may also want a solicitor for legal advice on the underlying transaction.
Both Services, One Office
Hugh Phelan provides both solicitor and notary public services from East Douglas Street, Douglas, Co. Cork. Contact Hugh Phelan’s office at 021-489-7134 or email info@phelansolicitors.com.
Looking for a Notary Public in Cork?
Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor & Notary Public appointed by the Chief Justice of Ireland. Same-day appointments available.
Notary Public Cork — Book Now📞 +353-21-489-7134 · East Douglas Street, Douglas, Cork