Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a notary public?​​​

• ​A notary is a lawyer or licensed paralegal appointed by Ontario Attorney General. Their main job is to confirm that signers are who they claim to be, ensure signing is voluntary and with full understanding of the contents and consequences, verify signature and seal authenticity of the document.

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Is my notary able to provide me with legal advice or review my documents for accuracy?​

• ​The notary will verify the identity of the person signing the document and witnesses the signature. The notary does not explain the content of the document nor do they review it for accuracy.

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How much do notary services cost?​

• Our services are set at a competitive flat rate of $29.99, with an emphasis on speed, reliability, and convenience for all Ottawa residents. 

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What do I need for my appointment?​

• ​To prepare for an appointment, please bring a valid government-issued photo identification (such as a driver's license, passport, or Ontario Photo Card) to verify your identity. Have your unsigned documents ready, but do not sign them in advance. For certified true copies, bring the original documents along with any photocopies. For certain documents like wills or powers of attorney, see below.​

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Do I need additional witnesses to notarize a Power of Attorney?​

• In Ontario, a Continuing Power of Attorney for Property or a Power of Attorney for Personal Care must be signed in the presence of two witnesses. Witnesses cannot be the grantor's (principal's) spouse or partner, the attorney, the attorney's spouse or partner, the grantor's child, or someone the grantor treats as a child.