About Hugh Phelan

Hugh Phelan is a Solicitor and Notary Public practising from Phelan Solicitors on East Douglas Street, Douglas, Co. Cork, Ireland. With over 20 years of distinguished experience in legal practice and corporate management, Hugh has established himself as one of Cork's most trusted and experienced notary public practitioners.

Appointed as a Notary Public by the Chief Justice of Ireland and commissioned for life, Hugh holds the highest level of notarial authority available in the Irish legal system. This lifetime appointment reflects the exceptional standard of competence, integrity, and professionalism that the Chief Justice requires of those entrusted with this important public office.

Education & Qualifications

Hugh's academic foundation was laid at Christian Brothers College, Cork — one of the city's most respected educational institutions — before continuing his studies at Brighton College of Technology. His legal education and professional qualifications include:

• BCL (Bachelor of Civil Law) — University College Cork (UCC), one of Ireland's leading law schools
• Diploma in Commercial Litigation — Law Society of Ireland, demonstrating advanced expertise in dispute resolution and court procedures
• Diploma in Notarial Law and Practice — Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland, the specialist qualification required to practise as a Notary Public

Dual Jurisdiction Qualification

Hugh is uniquely qualified as a Solicitor in both Ireland and England & Wales. This dual qualification provides him with an exceptional understanding of both common law jurisdictions and makes him particularly well-suited to handling cross-border legal matters, international document authentication, and transactions involving parties in the United Kingdom.

Whether you need documents notarised for use in England, Wales, or any other jurisdiction worldwide, Hugh's dual qualification ensures that he understands the specific requirements and expectations of receiving authorities on both sides of the Irish Sea and beyond.

Notarial Practice

As a Notary Public, Hugh provides a comprehensive range of notarial services to individuals, businesses, and corporate clients throughout Cork and Munster. His services include document notarisation, apostille preparation, powers of attorney, affidavits and statutory declarations, certified true copies, international document legalisation, and corporate notarial services.

Hugh's extensive experience in corporate management, combined with his legal expertise, gives him a practical understanding of the commercial context in which notarial services are required. Whether authenticating a simple document for personal use abroad or handling complex corporate notarial matters, Hugh brings the same meticulous attention to detail and professional rigour to every engagement.

Professional Memberships

Hugh is a member of several prestigious professional bodies:

• Faculty of Notaries Public in Ireland — the governing body for Notaries Public in Ireland
• Law Society of Ireland — the professional body for solicitors in Ireland
• Law Society of England and Wales — the professional body for solicitors in England and Wales

Commitment to Clients

Hugh is committed to providing prompt, professional, and cost-effective notary services. He understands that clients often need documents notarised urgently — whether for an overseas property purchase, an international business transaction, or a personal matter requiring immediate attention. His office accommodates same-day appointments where possible and maintains flexible scheduling to meet the needs of busy clients.

Located in Douglas, Co. Cork, Hugh's office is easily accessible from Cork City centre and the surrounding areas, with convenient parking available nearby.