What Does a Notary Public Do?

Posted by heritagelawoffices on Jan 5, 2017 in Blog, Notary

notary stamping documentMany of us know something called a notary public exists– but there’s a pretty good chance you don’t know what these professionals do, unless you’ve needed one in the past. Even so, you may have only used a single facet of what a notary public offers. Regardless, you can use the following summary from Heritage Law as a crash course in this practical and necessary field of service.

NOTARIZATION

As you may have a guessed, a notary public notarizes! Certain documents must receive notarization in order to be considered valid in the eyes of the law. Some examples are oaths, declarations, affirmations and affidavits. Deeds, contracts and business documents must be notarized by a notary public who also practices as a judge or a lawyer.

ETC.

Notaries public are allowed to charge for their services, but there are no set fees– always thoroughly vet any potential notary public. Commissioners of oaths can fulfill similar duties, but their endorsement is not valid outside of the Province in which they are recognized.

All practicing lawyers are notaries public. Also: members of the Senate appointed while citizens of Alberta, members of the Legislative Assembly, members of the House of Commons, judges and students-at-law.

If you think you need a notary public or if you’ve already made an appointment, contact or visit Heritage Law with any of your questions today! Not only can we provide the necessary services, we can also offer professional advice and second opinions.