A Calgary notary public is a qualified lawyer authorized to perform various legal services. A notary public can administer oaths, witness signatures, certify deeds, and authenticate original documents and true copies. The primary purpose of a notary public is to act as an impartial third-party witness in important transactions to deter fraud and ensure the validity of documents.

The notary public seal is a distinctive emblem used to authenticate their actions on legal and other documents used. This seal typically includes the notary’s name, title, jurisdiction (province, territory, or location), and the words “Notary Public.” It serves as a sign of the notary’s authority and is often accompanied by the notary’s signature. Any document bearing the notary public seal holds significant legal weight and credibility.

A commissioner for oaths, much like a notary public, is an individual authorised to administer oaths and attest affirmations. However, unlike a notary, a commissioner for oaths does not have the authority to authenticate documents. Their role is more limited and specific to oath services like witnessing the signing of affidavits, statutory declarations, and other sworn statements.

In Alberta, a commissioner for oaths uses their signature and stamp to validate the authenticity of the sworn statements they witness. The commissioner’s stamp may include their name, title, and the words “Commissioner for Oaths.” While their scope of authority might be narrower than a notary public, commissioners for oaths play a crucial role in attesting to the truthfulness of statements made by individuals in various legal situations.

At DLegal, we offer reasonable fees for commissioner for oaths and notary services, see our rates here.