Notary Public in Rennes, France — Étude Rahel Simon
Looking for a notary public in Rennes or Brittany? Maître Rahel Simon is a fully qualified French notary (notaire) based in Rennes, Ille-et-Vilaine. The practice assists expatriates, international clients and English-speaking individuals with a wide range of notarial services in France.
In France, a notaire is the legal equivalent of a notary public. French notaries are appointed by the State and have the authority to authenticate legal documents, making them valid and enforceable under French and international law.
Services for International Clients
Real Estate Transactions
Buying or selling property in Rennes or Brittany. The notary authenticates the sale deed and ensures the legal transfer of ownership.
Document Authentication
Notarization and authentication of legal documents for use abroad. Powers of attorney, affidavits, statutory declarations and certified copies.
Inheritance & Succession
Settlement of French estates for international heirs. Cross-border succession matters involving French assets or French nationals living abroad.
Family Law
Marriage contracts, PACS agreements, powers of attorney, wills and donations for international couples or individuals residing in France.
What is a French Notary?
A French notaire is not exactly the same as a notary public in common law countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom or Australia. In France, notaries are highly qualified legal professionals appointed by the Ministry of Justice. They hold a public office and their acts carry the same legal force as court decisions.
Unlike a simple witness to a signature, a French notary:
- •Advises both parties independently and impartially
- •Verifies the legal status of parties and documents
- •Ensures compliance with French law
- •Authenticates acts, giving them full legal validity
- •Retains original documents in a secure archive
Apostille and Document Legalisation
If you need a French document authenticated for use in another country — or a foreign document recognised in France — the notary can advise on the appropriate procedure. France is a signatory to the Hague Convention of 1961, which means that documents issued by French authorities can be apostilled for use in other member states without further legalisation.
The notary can guide you through the apostille process and authenticate documents that require notarial certification before an apostille can be issued.
Cross-Border Matters
International clients frequently require notarial assistance for situations that involve both French law and the law of another country — purchasing property in France, inheriting a French estate from abroad, or establishing legal residence in France. Maître Rahel Simon has experience handling cross-border matters and can coordinate with foreign lawyers and authorities where necessary.
EU Regulation No 650/2012 on succession matters allows EU residents to choose the law of their nationality to govern their estate. If you are a foreign national residing in France, the notary can advise you on your options and help you make the appropriate choice in your will or estate planning documents.
Book an Appointment in Rennes
Maître Rahel Simon's practice is located in Rennes, Ille-et-Vilaine, and serves clients throughout Brittany. Appointments are available for all notarial matters. Please contact the practice to arrange a consultation.
Me Rahel SIMON
Notary in Rennes, France
Phone
+33 2 19 00 22 60Address
166 rue de Châtillon
35000 Rennes, France
Office hours
Monday to Friday:
9:00 am – 12:30 pm · 2:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Saturday by appointment.