What should I ask before ordering certified document copies?

Check the receiving office’s requirements

Tell the receiving lawyer, notary or authority what the document is, where it was issued and what you need it for. Ask whether they need an original, certified copy, official electronic document or another specified form. Requirements for one purpose should not be assumed to apply to another.

Clarify who may certify the copy and whether translation, authentication or an apostille needs consideration. For documents issued abroad, ask about the complete acceptance process before commissioning separate services. A certification may concern the copy or signature rather than confirming every underlying statement in the document.

Request an itemised quote distinguishing obtaining the source record, certification, translation and delivery. Confirm whether all pages and attachments must be included and whether the receiving office will need to inspect an original. Keep a record of the instructions and the exact document supplied. For Greek public documents, your adviser can help identify whether an official digital version or a service accessed through gov.gr is appropriate.