Many applications, transactions, and court processes require a document to be witnessed, certified, or sworn before an authorized official. Lawyers in Ontario hold both offices, so both services are available here.
What is a Notary Public?
A Notary Public is a lawyer authorized to certify and authenticate documents for use both within Canada and internationally. Notarized documents are commonly required for immigration applications, international business dealings, overseas property transactions, visa applications and other cross-border purposes.
What is a Commissioner of Oaths?
A Commissioner of Oaths is authorized to witness the signing of statutory declarations, affidavits and sworn statements for use within Ontario and Canada — frequently required for legal proceedings, government benefit applications, financial institution requirements and more.
In-person attendance required
All documents must be signed in the physical presence of our authorized representative. You may complete the information in advance, but the signing, swearing, or affirming must happen in person at our office. This requirement cannot be waived.
If you have questions about what to bring or how to prepare for your appointment, our team is happy to assist in advance.
Quick answers to what clients ask us most. Have a different question? We're glad to help.
A notary public can certify true copies and authenticate documents for international use; a commissioner of oaths can witness affidavits and statutory declarations for use within Ontario and Canada. As lawyers, we are both — so we can handle whichever your matter requires.
Yes. All documents must be signed, sworn or affirmed in the physical presence of our authorized representative. You can prepare the information in advance, but the signing must happen in person — this requirement cannot be waived.
Bring the original document (often unsigned, to be signed in front of us) and valid government-issued photo identification. If others must sign, all signers should attend together.
Book an appointment to have a document notarized or commissioned.