Witnessing a Signature

Some legal documents must be signed in the presence of a witness.
Justices of the Peace are often asked to act as witnesses.

  • Make an appointment to see a JP or turn up at a Service Desk.
  • Do not sign the form until you are with the JP.
  • Tell the Justice of the Peace exactly what type of document requires your signature to be witnessed.
    Most forms state whether a Justice is able to act as your witness.
  • It must be your document and you must be the person named in it.
  • Bring some form of photo identification.
  • We encourage you to bring your own pen. (blue or black ink).
  • The JP will watch you sign the document.
  • Once you have signed, the JP will sign, date and stamp the page.

Notes

Wills
Witnessing a will is not a function of Justices of the Peace.
A Justice may be one of two witnessea to a will but they are acting as an ordinary person. They do not use the letters JP after their signature.

Enduring Power of Attorney (EPoA)

A Justice may not witness the donor’s signature on an EPoA.
This is done by the lawyer who has given the donor legal advice.

A Justice may witness the attorney’s signature on an EPoA.
Because they are acting as an ordinary person, they do not use the letters JP after their signature.

Other circumstances

If you are unable to sign the document in the usual manner, e.g. as a result of injury, disability, impaired vision etc, you may make a mark on the document which need not be legible. You are welcome to bring a support person.