A Commissioner for Oaths is a person who is authorised to witness the signing of important legal documents, including affidavits and statutory declarations.

They are appointed by the Chief Justice and are usually, though not always, a solicitor. All practicing solicitors can also administer oaths. Unlike a Peace Commissioner, a Commissioner for Oaths charges a fee for their services.

You may need a Commissioner for Oaths if you are:

• Giving evidence on affidavit for court proceedings in Ireland.

• Making an affirmation, declaration, acknowledgement, examination or attestation for a variety of reasons, including court proceedings or for the registration of documents.

You will need to provide the Commissioner with valid, in-date evidence of your identity, such as a passport or driving licence before signing any documents.

The fees a Commissioner for Oaths can charge are given in the Rules of the Superior Courts (Fees Payable to Commissioners for Oaths) (SI 616 of 2003).

They are as follows:

• €10 per signature for verifying statements.

• €2 charge for each exhibit that is attached to the document, up to a maximum of €30.
  

You are advised to check the charges in advance as they may vary. For example, if the Commissioner for Oaths has to travel to you there will probably be an extra fee.