TIPS FOR WORKING WITH A NOTARY PUBLIC

Notary Public Services

1. Bring Proper Identification

• Always bring at least one piece of government-issued photo ID. A driver’s licence, passport, or provincial ID card.
• Make sure the ID is valid and not expired.

2. Don’t Sign in Advance

• Do not sign your documents before meeting the notary.
• The notary must witness you signing in person to validate the document.

3. Bring Original Documents

• If you need certified true copies. Bring the original documents along with the photocopies.
• The notary can only certify a copy by comparing it with the original.

4. Know What You Need Notarized

• Review your documents before your appointment.
• If they’re in a foreign language, let the notary know ahead of time (translations may be required).

5. Have All Parties Present

• If your document requires multiple signatures. Everyone must be present with their own ID.

6. Check Requirements for International Use

• Some countries require authentication or legalization in addition to notarization.
• Ask the notary about apostille / authentication services if your documents are going abroad.

7. Prepare Witnesses (if needed)

• Some documents require independent witnesses.
• Check beforehand whether you need to bring your own witness, or if the notary’s office can provide one.

8. Review Before You Leave

• Double-check that your documents are signed, stamped, and sealed correctly before leaving.
• Corrections after you leave may require another appointment.

9. Confirm Fees in Advance

• Ask about the cost before your appointment.
• Some services (like mobile visits or international document preparation) may have higher fees.

10. Bring Payment Method

• Many notaries accept cash, debit, or credit card, but check beforehand.
• Some also accept e-transfer for convenience.

If you’re dealing with sensitive, valuable, or contested matters. A notary public is a small step that provides big protection.

Here’s a clear breakdown of why and when to use a notary:

Legal Verification of Identity

• A notary confirms that:
  • You are who you say you are.
  • You signed willingly, without coercion.
  • You understood the contents of the document.

This reduces the risk of fraud or disputes.

Documents Become “Notarized” & Trusted

• A notarized document:
  • Carries greater legal weight.
  • Is often required by courts, banks, and government agencies.
  • Can be used across provinces, borders, and institutions.

Helps Avoid Future Challenges

• If a document is notarized:
  • It’s harder for someone to claim it was faked, signed under duress, or misunderstood.
  • In court, notarized documents are often presumed valid, saving time and legal fees.

Required by Law for Some Documents

• Certain documents must be notarized to be valid, such as:
  • Affidavits and statutory declarations.
  • Real estate transfers.
  • Power of attorney.
  • Out-of-country documents.
  • Some international travel consents (e.g., for minors).

Adds a Layer of Professional Review

• While a notary isn’t giving legal advice (unless they’re also a lawyer), they often spot:
  • Missing signatures or initials.
  • Formatting problems.
  • Potential errors before they become issues.

Common Documents That Benefit from Notarization:

• Wills (not required in Saskatchewan, but helpful)
• Contracts and loan agreements
• Power of attorney
• Travel letters for minors
• Real estate deeds or land transfers
• Sworn affidavits and declarations
• Business or corporate documents

Bonus: Peace of Mind

A notarized document gives both parties confidence it’s real, enforceable, and handled correctly.