In Ontario, Canada, a notary public is a legal professional appointed by the provincial government to serve as a witness to the signing of important documents. Notaries public play a crucial role in the authentication and certification of various legal documents to ensure their validity and authenticity.

Here are some key points about notaries public in Ontario:

1) Role of a Notary Public:
• A notary public is authorized to administer oaths and affirmations.
• They can witness and authenticate the execution of various legal documents, including affidavits, statutory declarations, and powers of attorney.
• Notaries public may also verify the identity of individuals signing documents and certify copies of original documents.

2) Appointment and Regulation:
• Notaries public in Ontario are appointed by the Ministry of the Attorney General.
• The appointment is typically for a term of two years, after which the notary may apply for reappointment.

3) Duties and Powers:
• Notaries public in Ontario have specific duties and powers outlined in the Notaries Act.
• They can administer oaths and affirmations, take and receive affidavits and statutory declarations, and perform other acts authorized by law.

4) Notary Public vs. Commissioner of Oaths:
• While notaries public and commissioners of oaths both authenticate documents, there are some differences between the two roles.
• Notaries public generally have broader powers and can perform a wider range of notarial acts. Commissioners of oaths are limited to administering oaths and affirmations.

5) Notary Fees:
Notaries public are entitled to charge fees for their services, and the fee structure is regulated by the government. The fee schedule may include charges for various services, such as administering oaths, witnessing signatures, and certifying documents.

6) Finding a Notary Public:
• Notaries public can be found in law offices, legal service providers, or as independent practitioners.
• The Law Society of Ontario provides a directory of licensed notaries public.

7) Limitations:
Notaries public in Ontario are subject to specific rules and regulations, and there are limitations on the types of documents they can authenticate. They cannot, for example, provide legal advice or draft legal documents.

If you require the services of a notary public in Ontario, it’s advisable to check their credentials, ensure they are currently appointed, and inquire about their fees for the specific services you need. Additionally, the Law Society of Ontario can provide further information and assistance regarding notaries public in the province.