How to get a power of attorney notarized in Toronto. Granting power of attorney allows the principal to appoint an individual to make decisions on their behalf or in their capacity. Also, the notarization process gives it more validation and credibility to be accepted in legal transactions.
How to get a Power of Attorney Notarized in Toronto
More specifically, in Toronto, the notarization process requires individuals to take multiple legal compliance steps to secure their interests.
To begin with, it is imperative to understand that there is no specific identifiable format for getting a notarized power of attorney. However, one must clearly understand what the power of attorney is per the definitions in Toronto (Hewson, 2023).
What is Power of Attorney?
In Toronto, multiple types of documents fulfill the definition and purpose of the power of an attorney. Two prominent examples encompass the power of attorney for property and the power of attorney for personal care (Willful, 2024).
Power of attorney for personal use
In the power of attorney for personal care, one grants authority over decisions related to healthcare.
Power of attorney for property
On the other hand, the power of attorney for property grants authority over decisions relating to finance and property.
Steps to get a power of attorney
Having adequate information enables one to choose the most suitable notary public in Toronto that best suits their needs. The selection of a qualified notary is a crucial aspect of the process as it determines the latter stages of representation and associated success (Hewson, 2023).
Licensed and expertise
It is essential to consider certain factors to ensure that you find a competent and knowledgeable notary. These factors include their license, level of understanding, and standing with the Law Society of Ontario (Hewson, 2023). By verifying these details, you can be confident that the notary has the required expertise, credentials, and ethical standards to perform their duties.
Prepare your document
Once you find the appropriate notary, you must prepare a power of attorney document. According to relevant Ontario regulations, the principal must clearly state in the document the powers being transferred to the notary in detail (Willful, 2024). This step is highly important and should be carried out in the presence of a legal adviser. When creating the document, it is crucial to ensure that it meets all the legal requirements to be enforceable (Hewson, 2023).
Schedule an appointment
After that, the next step is to schedule an appointment with their notary public for the notarization process. The notarization process also requires the principal to verify their identity, which is possible by issuing a government-issued document such as a passport or a driver’s license.
Most imperative is that the principal attends the appointment in person and presents the required identification and the powers of attorney documents outlining the powers they relinquish. At this stage, the notary can review the powers of attorney document and seek clarity where appropriate.
This is crucial in establishing a mutual understanding of the power offered to the representative and their capacity to remain dispensable (Hewson, 2023). At this stage, both the principal and witnesses sign the document to show their understanding of the specifics and commitment to abide by it going forward.
The principal must place their initials on every page and sign on the last page. Also, witness inclusion is recommended at this stage and must comprise two grown adults. Witnesses are also advised to place their initials on each page and signatures on the last page.
Check out: The Essential Guide to Document Notarization in Toronto
The notary will also verify the principal’s ID during the notarization process to help address any possible issues with fraud. Also, it helps ensure that the document’s requirements reflect the principal’s intentions. After a successful verification, the notary affixes their seal and signature to show that the powers of attorney have been appropriately notarized (Willful, 2024). The seal and signature of the notary, in this case, are crucial as they act as an official endorsement. Once done, the principal is advised to retain copies of the notarized powers of attorney records. The entire process has no complexities, provided all steps are followed to the core. While there are no articulate guidelines, the process is systematic and legally compliant.
