Do you need a document notarized in a hurry? Do you need a document executed but are not sure about the legal requirements?
Navigator Law should be your first choice for a Notary Public in NW Calgary, and we can help you understand the specific legal requirements for the document you need executing if the jurisdiction is Alberta. Call 403.265.3010 to schedule an appointment with Navigator Law LLP, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you. We’ll walk you through the process and make sure you bring all of the required documentation depending on the service you require.
A Notary Public is an officer of the law and an internationally recognized office. A Notary Public is licenced by the Notaries and Commissioners Act and is able to legally certify and attest to the validity of documents and the execution of a document. A signature and seal from a Notary Public make them valid as proof to judicial and other public authorities in Calgary, Alberta, and Canada.
A Notary Public seal must include the name of the Notary Public, the words ‘Notary Public’, and (in Alberta) the words ‘Province of Alberta’.
A Commissioner of Oaths can administer oaths and take, receive, and attest to affidavits, affirmations, and declarations.
While a Notary Public can act as a Commissioner of Oaths, a Commissioner of Oaths cannot act as a Notary Public.
In order to be valid, each document the Commissioner of Oaths verifies must include their name, the words (in Alberta) ‘A Commissioner for Oaths in and for Alberta’, (if appointed) the expiry date of their appointment.
For a simple taking of an oath, if the oath is made in Alberta and only used in Alberta, only a Commissioner of Oaths is needed. For use outside of Alberta, you will need an oath notarized.
It can be confusing when you need a document notarized or commissioned. Having a trusted law firm assist you in executing legal documents can help you save both money and time. Navigator Law can advise you on whether you need a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths and prevent any delays in completing documents and rejection of documents submitted.
Neither a Notary Public or a Commissioner of Oaths is allowed to provide independent legal advice – only a lawyer can give legal advice in Alberta. That is why it may be beneficial to book an appointment with a law office such as Navigator Law if you are unsure about the requirements of your particular document.
For example, personal guarantees, which are required for many business loans, need to be executed by a lawyer rather than simply being notarized. The requirements have changed to ensure the person who acknowledges the personal guarantee understands the guarantee he or she takes on.
Whether you need a Notary Public, a Commissioner of Oaths, or you need advice on the requirements needed in your specific case, Navigator Law can help you navigate the process and give you the appropriate legal services.
In order for our legal team to serve you better and faster, here is how you can prepare for your appointment for notarization or execution of documents.
Navigator Law can help you execute all types of legal documents, including:
What is the Difference Between a Notary Public and a Commissioner of Oaths?
A Notary Public is an officer of the law who can provide all and more functions than a Commissioner of Oaths. Most documents that are made and used within Alberta can be signed by a Commissioner of Oaths, but certain executions of documents require notarization.
Can a Notary Public Give Legal Advice?
In Alberta, only a lawyer can give independent legal advice. A Notary Public can only advise you on legal services related to execution of documents and is charged at the lawyers hourly rate.
Who Can Sign as a Notary Public?
Notary Publics are appointed under the Notaries and Commissioners Act. All practicing lawyers are Notary Publics. Certain other people can also be appointed as a Notary Public because of their office or status, including members of the Alberta Legislature, members of the House of Commons, and Canadian Senators.
What is a Statutory Declaration?
A Statutory Declaration is a written statement of facts that a person, the ‘declarant’ declares to be true. A Statutory Declaration can be witnessed by a Notary Public.
What is the Authentication/Legalization of Documents?
Even when you have had a document notarized in Alberta, if you are using it outside of the country, it may not acceptable without a Certificate of Authentication. Only the Deputy Provincial Secretary’s Office can issue a Certificate of Authentication.
We are Calgary’s Notary Public of choice. Whether you need a Notary Public or a Commissioner for Oaths, our team can provide you with an affordable solution.
Our office, located in the northwest of Calgary, AB, can easily arrange an appointment for you.
Due to the busy nature of our practice, we are unable to accept walk-ins. Please call our office at 403.265.3010 to schedule an appointment.
