Do I need to have a witness for Legal Documents?
Some contracts require the signature of a witness or a Justice of the Peace in order to be valid. A witness is simply a neutral third party who is present when you sign your contract. This witness will need to be a witness that can’t benefit from the contract in any way and has to be of sound mind and over the age of 18.
Some documents that might need the signature of a witness or a JP are:
- Estate planning documents such as a Will (Download Online)
- Documents used for real estate Buying and Selling Real Estate (Download Online)
- Marriage-related documents such as Binding Financial Agreements (Download Online)
What is A Justice of the Peace?
A justice of the peace in Australia is typically someone of good stature in the community who is authorised to witness and sign statutory declarations and affidavits and to certify copies of original documents.
A justice of the peace in Australia is typically someone of good stature in the community who is authorised to witness and sign statutory declarations and affidavits and to certify copies of original documents. Criteria for appointment vary widely, depending on the state.
Signing Legal Documents
Do I need to have a witness for Legal Documents?
Before you sign a contract, you should educate yourself on everything that’s required to sign it properly. Check your contract to ensure that it includes all the basic elements and be sure to check to see if your contract needs the signature of a witness to be valid.
