Solicitors applying for certificates

Solicitors can apply for certificates online or by post on behalf of a client. The client must be entitled to apply for a certificate in line with our requirements for:

• birth certificates
• marriage certificates
• death certificates
• searching for children of someone who has died (Section 50 search).

We may ask for additional documents to support the application such as a will, court order or other documents to prove identity or entitlement.

Solicitor's authority and identification

As a solicitor applying for a certificate or requesting a search on behalf of a client you must provide:

• a letter on company letterhead stating:
  • the name of your client and the nature of your representation
  • the type of certificate or search requested and the reason it is required, such as probate or estate administration, conveyancing or immigration.
  • the link between the client represented and the person whose name appears on the required certificate and
  • for estate matters, the relevant provisions of the Succession Act 2006 relating to eligibility.
• completed application form with your name as the applicant and
• certified copy of the solicitor's Law Society ID Card or practising certificate and
• payment with a company or trust cheque or company credit card.

Solicitors or legal practitioners registered outside of Australia must provide 3 current forms of identification for themselves, complying with the same requirements for applicants listed on the application.

Agent’s authority and identification

If a solicitor appoints a person (agent) to collect the certificate, the agent must provide:

• a letter from the solicitor on letterhead that names the person authorised to collect the certificate and
• at least 3 current forms of identification as required by the specific application.