When Do You Need to Hire a Notary?
A notary public (also known as a notary), is a trained professional who can provide limited legal services to the public.
Notaries have been around for a long time. Babylonian notaries chiseled the oldest written law into stone over 4000 years ago. At that time, a notary was a wise and trusted member of society. The role of a notary was to oversee transactions and guarantee their fairness.
The role has since evolved into a professional service, but its essence is still the same. In today’s times, a notary public still guarantees clients the fairness and legality of transactions.
WHEN DO YOU NEED A NOTARY?
There are a number of scenarios in which you would benefit from a notary. Our team at David Watts Notary Public can assist with:
1. Real Estate Transactions
If you’re on the cusp of either buying or selling a property, a notary plays a pivotal role. A notary public will ensure that all the documentation is in order, legally binding, and properly executed. This is crucial in preventing any future legal hiccups.
2. Property Transfers
Planning to transfer property ownership to a family member? This is another scenario where notarial services are invaluable. A notary public will be able to help you navigate the complex legal landscape, ensuring that the transfer is done correctly and legally.
3. Mortgage Processes
Entering the world of mortgages can be daunting. A notary can guide you through the process, ensuring that all agreements and contracts are legally sound and that your rights are protected.
4. Estate Planning
When it comes to preparing crucial documents like wills, representation agreements, or powers of attorney, working with a notary is not necessary, but highly recommended to avoid potential disputes. A notary public will make sure that your wishes are clearly articulated and legally enforceable.
5. International Travel with Children
If you or your spouse plan to travel abroad with your kids, especially without the other parent, notarized consent is often required. A notary will be able to provide you with the necessary legal backing for such documents.
6. Signing Affidavits
Affidavits are sworn statements used in various legal settings. A notary ensures that these are signed in accordance with legal standards, lending them the required authenticity and validity.
7. Moving Abroad
If you’re relocating to another country, you’ll likely need various documents notarized. A notary public ensures that your documents are accepted internationally, adhering to the legal standards of your destination country.
Many people think that they should hire a lawyer instead of a notary to do these things. I’ve written about the difference between lawyers and notaries in the past, but here’s what you need to know in a nutshell:
A notary public specializes in non-contentious matters, dealing with documents and transactions where there is no dispute or need for legal representation in court. Our expertise lies in ensuring that your documents are legally sound and your transactions are executed smoothly.
British Columbia notaries are experts in the areas we choose to practice.
If we act for you as a notary in business agreements or residential real estate transactions, our experience will help us to identify issues and deal with them before they become problems.
If we do get to a place where litigation is necessary, we are here to help you find a lawyer who can provide legal advice and assistance. We have a community of trusted legal professionals who are experts in litigation.
WHAT CAN BC NOTARIES DO FOR YOU?
BC Notaries have professional standards dictated by the Notaries Act of British Columbia. A notary is also governed by the rules, by-laws, and best practices dictated by The Society of Notaries Public of British Columbia.
That means that at David Watts Notary Public we are a team of certified experts and can help you with all your notary needs.
1. REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS
A notary public can help you complete legal documents for real estate transactions such as Purchases, Sales, Mortgages and Family Transfers. By working with a notary, you are ensuring a smooth and legal transition or purchase of property.
2. PERSONAL PLANNING DOCUMENTS
A notary can help clients prepare for the future with Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Representation Agreements. By having these important legal documents notarized, you will help ensure their legitimacy and ability to be held up in a court of law.
3. NOTARIZATION
A notary public can provide General Notarizations and Certified True Copies of Original Documents as well as Notarize your signature on:
Affidavits
Statutory Declarations
Letters of Invitation
Passport Documents
Various Applications
4. INTERNATIONAL AUTHENTICATION AND LEGALIZATION SERVICES
A notary can get documents authenticated and legalized for use in Canada and around the world.
DAVID WATTS NOTARY PUBLIC: NOTARY SERVICES COST
Below is a list of our fees and additional information regarding our notary services. If you have any questions regarding our fees, please feel free to contact us.
NOTARIZATION COST
Cost for Certified True Copies of documents: $60 ($53.57 + GST & PST)
Additional documents or copies: $20 each
MULTIPLE EXHIBITS:
For documents with multiple exhibits, we charge $20 per exhibit after the 4th.
INTERNATIONAL OR REAL ESTATE DOCUMENTS:
For documents to be used outside of Canada, or involving real estate purchases, sales, or mortgages, please email us for a specific quote.
PLEASE NOTE:
Ensure to print and bring the documents.
Bring 2 pieces of unexpired identification, with at least one being government-issued with a photograph.
NOTARIZED AND CERTIFIED TRUE COPIES
CERTIFIED TRUE COPIES COST:
First copy/document: $60
Additional copies: $20 each
PROVIDING COPIES:
You can bring the original documents, and we can make the copies here.
If you prefer, you can bring your own copies.
PRINTING CHARGES:
For more than 10 pages, we charge $1.00 per page.
GET IN TOUCH – DAVID WATTS NOTARY PUBLIC
To find out more information about our notary services, receive a quote, or to book an appointment, please call or email us. Our office is conveniently located at 675 W Hastings St Unit #1412 in downtown Vancouver. We are happy to assist you directly or to provide a referral for someone who can help.