There are differences between a Commissioner of Oaths, and a Notary Public. Let’s talk about what they can and can’t do.
Can a Commissioner of Oaths Notarize documents in Alberta?
No, a Commissioner of Oaths can NOT notarize documents in Alberta.
A Commissioner for Oaths can not act as a Notary public.
However, it does work the other way around. A Notary public can notarize documents, as well as commission oaths in Alberta.
It should be noted here that while many of us say “Commissioner of Oaths”, the proper terminology and official title is “Commissioner for Oaths”.
What Can a Commissioner for Oaths Do in Alberta?
- Administer oaths
- Attest the oaths, affidavits, affirmations or declarations
- Take and receive affidavits, affirmations or declarations
Who Can Notarize Documents in Alberta?
Any Notary public can notarize documents. A Notary public is someone appointment under the Notaries and Commissioners Act as a Notary Public.
Commissioners for Oaths are also appointed under this act. Certain individuals can apply for appointment individually, but most are appointed because of the office they hold or their status.
People who are Notary publics because of the office they hold or their status:
- Judges
- Lawyers or students-at-law
- Members of the Alberta legislature
- Members of Parliament from Alberta
- Canadian senators who were a resident of Alberta at the time of their Senate appointment
Can The Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General Notarize Documents in Alberta?
No, The Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General in Alberta can not notarize documents or provide Commissioner for Oaths services.
These government entities appoint individuals under the Notaries and Commissioners Act who provide these services to the public.
In Summary
- If you need to get a document notarized in Alberta, you will need to contact a notary public.
- This will most often be a lawyer.
- A Commissioner of Oaths can not notarize a document.
- A notary public can notarize a document as well as commission oaths.
Related Questions
How much does it cost to notarize a document in Alberta?
Notary public fees and services vary from company to company.
The average cost to notarize a document in Alberta is around $50.
Fees are usually set based on quantity of documents. For example: 1 Document $50, subsequent documents $25 each.
Does a will have to be notarized in Alberta?
No, a will does not have to be notarized by a notary public in the province of Alberta. Source
