October 9, 2024
What Does a Notary Public Do?
A notary public plays an essential role in many legal and real estate matters, making sure important documents are properly witnessed, authenticated, and legally binding. Whether you're buying your first home or starting to plan your estate, you might be wondering what exactly a notary does and why you might need one. Having a clear understanding of when to work with a notary can help ensure your legal matters are handled with care and professionalism, giving you peace of mind.
What is a Notary Public?
A notary public is a legal professional who is authorized to witness, certify, and authenticate legal documents. In British Columbia, notaries are responsible for overseeing legal processes that do not involve contentious legal disputes, unlike lawyers who may represent clients in court.
The core function of a notary in BC is to act as an impartial witness to the signing of documents, ensuring that all parties involved understand the agreement and are signing voluntarily. This includes verifying the identity of signatories and certifying true copies of important documents. By witnessing and authenticating legal agreements, a notary ensures the document’s validity and helps prevent fraud or disputes.
What Does a Notary Public Do?
A notary public provides a wide range of services that are essential for legal and real estate transactions. Some of the services when you will need notary services include:
- Document Authentication: A notary public can certify that copies of important documents, such as birth certificates or legal agreements, are true copies of the original. This authentication ensures the documents can be used in official capacities, both locally and internationally.
- Witnessing Signatures: A notary oversees the signing of various legal documents, including contracts, affidavits, and other agreements. The notary ensures that the signing parties are doing so willingly and with a full understanding of the document’s contents.
- Real Estate Transactions: One of the most common services provided by notaries is managing real estate transactions. This includes overseeing property transfers, conducting title searches, and preparing or reviewing mortgage documentation.
- Wills and Power of Attorney: Notaries often assist in drafting and witnessing wills, representation agreements, and powers of attorney. These documents are vital for estate planning and ensure that a person’s wishes are legally documented in the event of incapacity or death.
In addition to these services, notaries may offer specialized assistance depending on the needs of the local community.
Why Do You Need a Notary Public?
There are many situations where using a notary public is not only beneficial but also legally required.
For example, when purchasing property, you need a notary to manage the title transfer and mortgage documentation, ensuring that the transaction is legally binding and that all paperwork is in order.
One of the biggest advantages of using a notary public is the assurance that your documents are valid and enforceable. A notary’s oversight helps to prevent disputes by verifying the authenticity of signatures and ensuring that the parties involved fully understand the document they are signing.
Common scenarios where you might need a notary include:
- Buying or selling property: Notaries handle all the legal aspects of property transactions, from title searches to mortgage paperwork.
- Drafting a will: A notary can help you prepare a legally binding will, ensuring your estate is distributed according to your wishes.
- Executing powers of attorney: Notaries can assist in preparing and witnessing powers of attorney, giving someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf in specific situations.
In these cases, having a notary involved guarantees that the documents are legally sound, helping to avoid any potential legal issues down the road.
Difference Between a Lawyer and Notary?
While both notaries and lawyers play important roles in the legal system, their responsibilities differ significantly.
The key differences between notaries and lawyers include:
However, when it comes to real estate transactions, estate planning, or document authentication, a notary public is often the more affordable and practical choice. Notaries in British Columbia are highly trained and regulated professionals who specialize in these types of services, making them the go-to option for many legal processes.
Conclusion
In many important moments—whether you're buying a home, preparing a will, or handling other legal documents—a notary public ensures everything is legally sound and properly executed. Having a trusted notary by your side can make the process smoother and give you confidence that everything is handled correctly.
At Brookswood Notary, we’re here to provide personalized, expert support for all your legal and real estate needs in Brookswood, Langley and nearby areas. Whether you need help with estate planning or real estate documents, we’ll make sure everything is done with care and precision. Contact us today to schedule an appointment—we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Table of Contents
Read Our Other Articles
What Does a Notary Public Do?
A Comprehensive Guide to Estate Planning
Understanding Property Transfer Tax in BC
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Hear From Our Happy Customers
read all reviewsAnn Z.
Absolutely professional, prompt, and pleasant! Am so glad I found this notary public near my home. I’ve used their services a few time and I know I’ll be back for more. They are my number one choice -and recommendation - for notary public.
Angie C.
Absolutely the best. Professional and Experienced. We will going to her for our legal documentation in the near future.
Kyle K.
Amazing service and very friendly staff! They are super accommodating and always find time for me. Even on short notice. As a frequent customer, I always enjoy my time going there!
Troy R.
Fantastic service, extremely knowledgeable and professional! Highly recommended!
Kaden Z.
Great environment! Very friendly and professional. They will help with all your needs
Andrew P.
I found my experience with Maureen and her staff to be excellent. They were attentive and had everything completed for our meeting even though the time period was short. Would recommend them for your Notary needs!!!
Kathryn V.
I have used Maureen’s services many times since 2010 for everything from real estate transactions, wills, to power of attorney and more. Maureen has always taken the time to explain everything thoroughly and to bring to my attention things that I may not have thought of. Her staff have helped me with urgent matters which I am so grateful for. I will definitely be using this Notary’s office as long as they are open.
Victor. K
I have used Mrs Friesen and her office for a multitude of legalities over 15 years now. I continue to use them as I have found them to be so professional, attention to details are second to none, and this entire office has my unequivocal trust.
Justin A.
Interactions with all staff was courteous, their work was prompt, and with no mistakes. Very pleased with our experience.
Chaeleen H.
Invaluable knowledge! Will be back for myself and already recommended to friends and family. Thank you Maureen.
Maureen F.
I’ve found Maureen Friesen’s notary services to be so professional we have used her for so many needs, divorce, a few home purchases and our Will She is always knowledgeable with the regulations and Laws. Also explains everything that we need. Totally recommend her. The office staff is also professional and helpful
Donna C.
Maureen Friesen is incredible. She is very professional, knowledgeable, and personable. Maureen spent much more time with me than the job required to make sure I completely understood my options. If you need the best I recommend Maureen.
David S.
Maureen and her team are thorough and efficient. We felt very comfortable that our interests were taken care of. They make buying and selling real estate easy.
Lesley U.
Maureen helped complete the sale of my mom’s home. She went above and beyond to make sure it was all clear and that it didn’t feel too overwhelming. I highly recommend her office!
Shane. D
Maureen is a very knowledgeable and professional person who looks after your notary needs in an efficient and timely manner. When it comes to sensitive documents, Maureen takes the time to explain everything, making it make sense and offers recommendations to benefit you and your future. The staff are very friendly and eager to help with any questions you may have. I highly recommend Maureen!
Debb R.
Maureen is fast efficient very thorough and most importantly very respectful. My mom started using her 20+ years ago and we keep coming back.
Joy K.
Maureen is kind and personable and fantastic to work with. We have used her services with many complicated transitions. She is informative and though and doesn’t miss a thing! I am so impressed.
Corinne M.
Maureen is very helpful and thorough. She goes out of her way to get done what needs to be done in a very timely fashion. I have been coming to Maureen for over 30 years and never been let down.
Jill O.
Maureen provides a welcoming experience and takes time to make sure you’re well informed and comfortable! That went a long way during the purchase of our first home and would highly recommend!
Sean W.
More than happy to support. They were able to accommodate us very last minute and were such a great help! Highly recommended!
Rob N.
My wife and I have used Maureen’s services on several occasions when selling and purchasing properties and she and her team have been friendly and professional. They have handled all our needs and everything has been completed efficiently.
Ellie K.
Not only very professional and efficient, but very kind after my husband died and I need a lot of help with legal matters. Thoroughly recommended.
Liesa H.
Over the last 5 years, we have purchased and sold three homes as well as done our Will and POA through Maureen Friesen. We are extremely pleased with the attention to detail, quality of service, and professionalism that her office has provided us with through each transaction. We will continue to use her in the future and highly recommend this Notary to others.
Fallen M.
Receptionist was able to book me in right away. Very courteous, helpful and professional. Looking forward to my experience when I arrive for my appointment.
Cam L.
Thanks Maureen and team for all the professional help and kindness you have shown my sister and I in processing the sale of our mother’s home . You have helped my parents and my family for many years with all our will , POA and real estate transaction needs and we appreciate it !
Sarah S.
The ladies in the office are wonderful. They expedited the sale of my house even with all the anomalies and were friendly and efficient. Would recommend to anyone needing a Notary :)
Jedy. P
The office staff are all friendly and helpful people. Working with Maureen sure made my task much easier, plus she made sure all a clients affairs are understandable to client. I would highly recommend her to people who need that service.
Lissa M.
They were extremely awesome, very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended them!!!
Kim C.
We have used Maureen Friesen a couple of times. Latest with the sale of our house. The service is excellent and super helpful and friendly staff. We are happy to recommend them to everyone
Shelley Y.
We've used Maureen Friesen's services many times since 2003. We have always been well taken care.
Ann Z.
Absolutely professional, prompt, and pleasant! Am so glad I found this notary public near my home. I’ve used their services a few time and I know I’ll be back for more. They are my number one choice -and recommendation - for notary public.
Angie C.
Absolutely the best. Professional and Experienced. We will going to her for our legal documentation in the near future.
Kyle K.
Amazing service and very friendly staff! They are super accommodating and always find time for me. Even on short notice. As a frequent customer, I always enjoy my time going there!
Troy R.
Fantastic service, extremely knowledgeable and professional! Highly recommended!
Kaden Z.
Great environment! Very friendly and professional. They will help with all your needs
Andrew P.
I found my experience with Maureen and her staff to be excellent. They were attentive and had everything completed for our meeting even though the time period was short. Would recommend them for your Notary needs!!!
Kathryn V.
I have used Maureen’s services many times since 2010 for everything from real estate transactions, wills, to power of attorney and more. Maureen has always taken the time to explain everything thoroughly and to bring to my attention things that I may not have thought of. Her staff have helped me with urgent matters which I am so grateful for. I will definitely be using this Notary’s office as long as they are open.
Victor. K
I have used Mrs Friesen and her office for a multitude of legalities over 15 years now. I continue to use them as I have found them to be so professional, attention to details are second to none, and this entire office has my unequivocal trust.
Justin A.
Interactions with all staff was courteous, their work was prompt, and with no mistakes. Very pleased with our experience.
Chaeleen H.
Invaluable knowledge! Will be back for myself and already recommended to friends and family. Thank you Maureen.
Maureen F.
I’ve found Maureen Friesen’s notary services to be so professional we have used her for so many needs, divorce, a few home purchases and our Will She is always knowledgeable with the regulations and Laws. Also explains everything that we need. Totally recommend her. The office staff is also professional and helpful
Donna C.
Maureen Friesen is incredible. She is very professional, knowledgeable, and personable. Maureen spent much more time with me than the job required to make sure I completely understood my options. If you need the best I recommend Maureen.
David S.
Maureen and her team are thorough and efficient. We felt very comfortable that our interests were taken care of. They make buying and selling real estate easy.
Lesley U.
Maureen helped complete the sale of my mom’s home. She went above and beyond to make sure it was all clear and that it didn’t feel too overwhelming. I highly recommend her office!
Shane. D
Maureen is a very knowledgeable and professional person who looks after your notary needs in an efficient and timely manner. When it comes to sensitive documents, Maureen takes the time to explain everything, making it make sense and offers recommendations to benefit you and your future. The staff are very friendly and eager to help with any questions you may have. I highly recommend Maureen!
Debb R.
Maureen is fast efficient very thorough and most importantly very respectful. My mom started using her 20+ years ago and we keep coming back.
Joy K.
Maureen is kind and personable and fantastic to work with. We have used her services with many complicated transitions. She is informative and though and doesn’t miss a thing! I am so impressed.
Corinne M.
Maureen is very helpful and thorough. She goes out of her way to get done what needs to be done in a very timely fashion. I have been coming to Maureen for over 30 years and never been let down.
Jill O.
Maureen provides a welcoming experience and takes time to make sure you’re well informed and comfortable! That went a long way during the purchase of our first home and would highly recommend!
Sean W.
More than happy to support. They were able to accommodate us very last minute and were such a great help! Highly recommended!
Rob N.
My wife and I have used Maureen’s services on several occasions when selling and purchasing properties and she and her team have been friendly and professional. They have handled all our needs and everything has been completed efficiently.
Ellie K.
Not only very professional and efficient, but very kind after my husband died and I need a lot of help with legal matters. Thoroughly recommended.
Liesa H.
Over the last 5 years, we have purchased and sold three homes as well as done our Will and POA through Maureen Friesen. We are extremely pleased with the attention to detail, quality of service, and professionalism that her office has provided us with through each transaction. We will continue to use her in the future and highly recommend this Notary to others.
Fallen M.
Receptionist was able to book me in right away. Very courteous, helpful and professional. Looking forward to my experience when I arrive for my appointment.
Cam L.
Thanks Maureen and team for all the professional help and kindness you have shown my sister and I in processing the sale of our mother’s home . You have helped my parents and my family for many years with all our will , POA and real estate transaction needs and we appreciate it !
Sarah S.
The ladies in the office are wonderful. They expedited the sale of my house even with all the anomalies and were friendly and efficient. Would recommend to anyone needing a Notary :)
Jedy. P
The office staff are all friendly and helpful people. Working with Maureen sure made my task much easier, plus she made sure all a clients affairs are understandable to client. I would highly recommend her to people who need that service.
Lissa M.
They were extremely awesome, very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended them!!!
Kim C.
We have used Maureen Friesen a couple of times. Latest with the sale of our house. The service is excellent and super helpful and friendly staff. We are happy to recommend them to everyone
Shelley Y.
We've used Maureen Friesen's services many times since 2003. We have always been well taken care.
Shelley Y.
We've used Maureen Friesen's services many times since 2003. We have always been well taken care.
Kim C.
We have used Maureen Friesen a couple of times. Latest with the sale of our house. The service is excellent and super helpful and friendly staff. We are happy to recommend them to everyone
Lissa M.
They were extremely awesome, very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended them!!!
Jedy. P
The office staff are all friendly and helpful people. Working with Maureen sure made my task much easier, plus she made sure all a clients affairs are understandable to client. I would highly recommend her to people who need that service.
Sarah S.
The ladies in the office are wonderful. They expedited the sale of my house even with all the anomalies and were friendly and efficient. Would recommend to anyone needing a Notary :)
Cam L.
Thanks Maureen and team for all the professional help and kindness you have shown my sister and I in processing the sale of our mother’s home . You have helped my parents and my family for many years with all our will , POA and real estate transaction needs and we appreciate it !
Fallen M.
Receptionist was able to book me in right away. Very courteous, helpful and professional. Looking forward to my experience when I arrive for my appointment.
Liesa H.
Over the last 5 years, we have purchased and sold three homes as well as done our Will and POA through Maureen Friesen. We are extremely pleased with the attention to detail, quality of service, and professionalism that her office has provided us with through each transaction. We will continue to use her in the future and highly recommend this Notary to others.
Ellie K.
Not only very professional and efficient, but very kind after my husband died and I need a lot of help with legal matters. Thoroughly recommended.
Rob N.
My wife and I have used Maureen’s services on several occasions when selling and purchasing properties and she and her team have been friendly and professional. They have handled all our needs and everything has been completed efficiently.
Sean W.
More than happy to support. They were able to accommodate us very last minute and were such a great help! Highly recommended!
Jill O.
Maureen provides a welcoming experience and takes time to make sure you’re well informed and comfortable! That went a long way during the purchase of our first home and would highly recommend!
Corinne M.
Maureen is very helpful and thorough. She goes out of her way to get done what needs to be done in a very timely fashion. I have been coming to Maureen for over 30 years and never been let down.
Joy K.
Maureen is kind and personable and fantastic to work with. We have used her services with many complicated transitions. She is informative and though and doesn’t miss a thing! I am so impressed.
Debb R.
Maureen is fast efficient very thorough and most importantly very respectful. My mom started using her 20+ years ago and we keep coming back.
Shane. D
Maureen is a very knowledgeable and professional person who looks after your notary needs in an efficient and timely manner. When it comes to sensitive documents, Maureen takes the time to explain everything, making it make sense and offers recommendations to benefit you and your future. The staff are very friendly and eager to help with any questions you may have. I highly recommend Maureen!
Lesley U.
Maureen helped complete the sale of my mom’s home. She went above and beyond to make sure it was all clear and that it didn’t feel too overwhelming. I highly recommend her office!
David S.
Maureen and her team are thorough and efficient. We felt very comfortable that our interests were taken care of. They make buying and selling real estate easy.
Donna C.
Maureen Friesen is incredible. She is very professional, knowledgeable, and personable. Maureen spent much more time with me than the job required to make sure I completely understood my options. If you need the best I recommend Maureen.
Maureen F.
I’ve found Maureen Friesen’s notary services to be so professional we have used her for so many needs, divorce, a few home purchases and our Will She is always knowledgeable with the regulations and Laws. Also explains everything that we need. Totally recommend her. The office staff is also professional and helpful
Chaeleen H.
Invaluable knowledge! Will be back for myself and already recommended to friends and family. Thank you Maureen.
Justin A.
Interactions with all staff was courteous, their work was prompt, and with no mistakes. Very pleased with our experience.
Victor. K
I have used Mrs Friesen and her office for a multitude of legalities over 15 years now. I continue to use them as I have found them to be so professional, attention to details are second to none, and this entire office has my unequivocal trust.
Kathryn V.
I have used Maureen’s services many times since 2010 for everything from real estate transactions, wills, to power of attorney and more. Maureen has always taken the time to explain everything thoroughly and to bring to my attention things that I may not have thought of. Her staff have helped me with urgent matters which I am so grateful for. I will definitely be using this Notary’s office as long as they are open.
Andrew P.
I found my experience with Maureen and her staff to be excellent. They were attentive and had everything completed for our meeting even though the time period was short. Would recommend them for your Notary needs!!!
Kaden Z.
Great environment! Very friendly and professional. They will help with all your needs
Troy R.
Fantastic service, extremely knowledgeable and professional! Highly recommended!
Kyle K.
Amazing service and very friendly staff! They are super accommodating and always find time for me. Even on short notice. As a frequent customer, I always enjoy my time going there!
Angie C.
Absolutely the best. Professional and Experienced. We will going to her for our legal documentation in the near future.
Ann Z.
Absolutely professional, prompt, and pleasant! Am so glad I found this notary public near my home. I’ve used their services a few time and I know I’ll be back for more. They are my number one choice -and recommendation - for notary public.
Shelley Y.
We've used Maureen Friesen's services many times since 2003. We have always been well taken care.
Kim C.
We have used Maureen Friesen a couple of times. Latest with the sale of our house. The service is excellent and super helpful and friendly staff. We are happy to recommend them to everyone
Lissa M.
They were extremely awesome, very friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommended them!!!
Jedy. P
The office staff are all friendly and helpful people. Working with Maureen sure made my task much easier, plus she made sure all a clients affairs are understandable to client. I would highly recommend her to people who need that service.
Sarah S.
The ladies in the office are wonderful. They expedited the sale of my house even with all the anomalies and were friendly and efficient. Would recommend to anyone needing a Notary :)
Cam L.
Thanks Maureen and team for all the professional help and kindness you have shown my sister and I in processing the sale of our mother’s home . You have helped my parents and my family for many years with all our will , POA and real estate transaction needs and we appreciate it !
Fallen M.
Receptionist was able to book me in right away. Very courteous, helpful and professional. Looking forward to my experience when I arrive for my appointment.
Liesa H.
Over the last 5 years, we have purchased and sold three homes as well as done our Will and POA through Maureen Friesen. We are extremely pleased with the attention to detail, quality of service, and professionalism that her office has provided us with through each transaction. We will continue to use her in the future and highly recommend this Notary to others.
Ellie K.
Not only very professional and efficient, but very kind after my husband died and I need a lot of help with legal matters. Thoroughly recommended.
Rob N.
My wife and I have used Maureen’s services on several occasions when selling and purchasing properties and she and her team have been friendly and professional. They have handled all our needs and everything has been completed efficiently.
Sean W.
More than happy to support. They were able to accommodate us very last minute and were such a great help! Highly recommended!
Jill O.
Maureen provides a welcoming experience and takes time to make sure you’re well informed and comfortable! That went a long way during the purchase of our first home and would highly recommend!
Corinne M.
Maureen is very helpful and thorough. She goes out of her way to get done what needs to be done in a very timely fashion. I have been coming to Maureen for over 30 years and never been let down.
Joy K.
Maureen is kind and personable and fantastic to work with. We have used her services with many complicated transitions. She is informative and though and doesn’t miss a thing! I am so impressed.
Debb R.
Maureen is fast efficient very thorough and most importantly very respectful. My mom started using her 20+ years ago and we keep coming back.
Shane. D
Maureen is a very knowledgeable and professional person who looks after your notary needs in an efficient and timely manner. When it comes to sensitive documents, Maureen takes the time to explain everything, making it make sense and offers recommendations to benefit you and your future. The staff are very friendly and eager to help with any questions you may have. I highly recommend Maureen!
Lesley U.
Maureen helped complete the sale of my mom’s home. She went above and beyond to make sure it was all clear and that it didn’t feel too overwhelming. I highly recommend her office!
David S.
Maureen and her team are thorough and efficient. We felt very comfortable that our interests were taken care of. They make buying and selling real estate easy.
Donna C.
Maureen Friesen is incredible. She is very professional, knowledgeable, and personable. Maureen spent much more time with me than the job required to make sure I completely understood my options. If you need the best I recommend Maureen.
Maureen F.
I’ve found Maureen Friesen’s notary services to be so professional we have used her for so many needs, divorce, a few home purchases and our Will She is always knowledgeable with the regulations and Laws. Also explains everything that we need. Totally recommend her. The office staff is also professional and helpful
Chaeleen H.
Invaluable knowledge! Will be back for myself and already recommended to friends and family. Thank you Maureen.
Justin A.
Interactions with all staff was courteous, their work was prompt, and with no mistakes. Very pleased with our experience.
Victor. K
I have used Mrs Friesen and her office for a multitude of legalities over 15 years now. I continue to use them as I have found them to be so professional, attention to details are second to none, and this entire office has my unequivocal trust.
Kathryn V.
I have used Maureen’s services many times since 2010 for everything from real estate transactions, wills, to power of attorney and more. Maureen has always taken the time to explain everything thoroughly and to bring to my attention things that I may not have thought of. Her staff have helped me with urgent matters which I am so grateful for. I will definitely be using this Notary’s office as long as they are open.
Andrew P.
I found my experience with Maureen and her staff to be excellent. They were attentive and had everything completed for our meeting even though the time period was short. Would recommend them for your Notary needs!!!
Kaden Z.
Great environment! Very friendly and professional. They will help with all your needs
Troy R.
Fantastic service, extremely knowledgeable and professional! Highly recommended!
Kyle K.
Amazing service and very friendly staff! They are super accommodating and always find time for me. Even on short notice. As a frequent customer, I always enjoy my time going there!
Angie C.
Absolutely the best. Professional and Experienced. We will going to her for our legal documentation in the near future.
Ann Z.
Absolutely professional, prompt, and pleasant! Am so glad I found this notary public near my home. I’ve used their services a few time and I know I’ll be back for more. They are my number one choice -and recommendation - for notary public.
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