FAQ’s

General Questions:

Have questions about notarizing your documents? Here are answers to some of the most common questions about notary services, appointments, walk-ins, mobile service, and what to bring.

How much do you charge?

My in-office notary rates are:

  • 1st notarization or certified copy: $35.40
  • 2nd notarization or certified copy: $20.00
  • 3rd and additional documents during the same visit: $10.00 each

Mobile notary fees are extra and depend on travel distance.

Where are you located?

My office is located at:

119 Wortley Road, 2nd Floor, Suite 5
London, Ontario N6C 3P3

I am located in Wortley Village / Old South London.

What are your hours?

My regular office hours are:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Holiday hours and mobile availability may vary.

Are you really a walk-in or do I need an appointment?

Yes, walk-ins are welcome. However, I recommend that you call or text ahead to make sure I am in the office and not away on a mobile appointment.

You can also book online in advance if you prefer.

How long does it take?

Most notarization appointments take about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on:

  • the number of documents
  • whether your documents are ready
  • identification review
  • whether extra explanation is needed

If you have several documents, your appointment may take longer.

Where can I find instructions on how to notarize my document?

I provide general information about notary services on my website, but I do not provide legal advice or instructions on how to complete legal forms.

If you are unsure what type of notarization you need or how to complete your document, please contact the organization requesting it or seek legal advice.

Will my document be accepted?

I can properly notarize or commission your document if it meets signing and identification requirements. However, I cannot guarantee whether a court, government office, foreign authority, or other organization will accept it.

Acceptance depends on the specific requirements of the receiving organization. It is always best to confirm their requirements in advance.

What do I need to bring with me to have my document notarized?

Please bring:

  • valid government-issued photo ID
  • your complete document
  • any supporting documents, if required
  • originals if you need certified copies
  • payment for service

Please do not sign or date the document in advance unless you have been instructed to do so.

What if I am house-bound, in the hospital or cannot come to your office. What can I do to have my documents notarized?

I offer mobile notary services for clients who cannot attend my office in person, including those who are:

  • house-bound
  • in hospital
  • in a retirement home
  • in a care facility
  • living with mobility challenges

Please contact me in advance via email to arrange a mobile appointment. The person signing must be mentally capable, willing to sign, and able to provide valid identification.

I don’t speak or understand English well or at all. Can I have my document notarized?

Possibly, but the signer must fully understand what they are signing. If they do not speak or understand English well enough, a qualified interpreter may be required.

The signer must be able to:

  • understand the document
  • communicate clearly
  • confirm they are signing willingly

I cannot notarize a document if I am not satisfied that the signer understands what they are signing.

Do I need to sign my affidavit before the appointment?

No. In most cases, you must sign your affidavit or statutory declaration in front of the Notary Public or Commissioner for Taking Affidavits.

What is the difference between an affidavit and a statutory declaration?

An affidavit is usually used for legal or court-related matters and must be sworn or affirmed. A statutory declaration is often used for administrative or non-contentious matters where a written declaration of truth is required.

Can I make a solemn affirmation instead of taking an oath?

Yes. A solemn affirmation is a non-religious alternative to an oath and has the same legal effect.

Can you help with out-of-province or out-of-country documents?

Yes. Karen regularly assists clients with documents intended for use outside Ontario and outside Canada.

Do you provide legal advice about which form I need?

No. Karen provides Notary Public and Commissioner for Taking Affidavits services only and does not provide legal advice. If you need help choosing or completing a form, you should seek legal advice

___________________________________________________________________________________

Apostille/Authentication of Document Questions

Can a Notary Public issue an apostille in Ontario?
No. A Notary Public cannot issue an apostille or authenticate a document. A notary can only prepare and notarize eligible documents for submission to Official Documents Services (ODS).

Can you help prepare documents for apostille or authentication?
Yes. Karen is registered with Official Documents Services to notarize and prepare documents requiring apostille/authentication.

Do I have to get the apostille myself?
Yes. Clients must obtain the apostille or authentication themselves by attending ODS in Toronto or Windsor, or by mailing the documents to ODS in Toronto.

Can you refer me to an apostille service?
Yes. Karen can refer you to a firm that offers apostille service assistance.