Comm-03

What does a Notary Public do?

In Alberta, a Notary Public is defined by the Notaries Public Act in the Statutes of Alberta, Chapter N-11.

A Notary Public has the power to administer oaths, and take and receive affidavits, declarations and affirmations, just as a Commissioner for Oaths can.

However, the Notary Public may do several things that a Commissioner cannot. A Notary Public may deal with documents that will be used outside of Alberta (for example, an affidavit to be used in a lawsuit being conducted in the United States). A Notary also has the power to issue certificates under the Guarantees Acknowledgment Act, another Alberta statute.

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December 2004

see also:

• Sources of Legal Assistance
• Links to related information in other provinces: search ACJNet using the terms “oaths”, “notary”, and “notaries”.

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