Helpful guides and answers to common questions about notarial services in British Columbia.
Guides & Articles
Notary Resources
Plain-language guides to help you understand notarial services and what to expect.
Estate Planning
Why You Need a Will — Even If You Think You Don't
Many people put off making a Will because they believe it's only necessary later in life, or only for the wealthy. In reality, a Will is one of the most important documents you can have at any age. Without one, British Columbia's intestacy rules determine how your estate is distributed — and the result may not reflect your wishes. If you have children, a business, or any assets, a Will is essential.
Estate Planning
The Three Documents Every Adult Should Have
A complete estate plan in BC consists of three documents: a Will (what happens to your assets after death), an Enduring Power of Attorney (who manages your financial affairs if you become incapacitated), and a Representation Agreement (who makes healthcare decisions on your behalf). Most people benefit from having all three in place. Edmonds Notary can prepare all three in a single appointment.
Certified Copies
What Is a Certified True Copy — and When Do You Need One?
A certified true copy is a photocopy of an original document that has been reviewed and certified by a Notary Public as a true, accurate, and complete reproduction. Institutions such as embassies, universities, immigration authorities, and employers often require certified copies of passports, degrees, marriage certificates, and other important documents rather than originals.
Travel
Travel Consent Letters for Children — What You Need to Know
If a child is travelling outside Canada without one or both parents or legal guardians, Canadian border services and many foreign countries require a notarized Travel Consent Letter. This applies whether a child is travelling with one parent, grandparents, a school group, or another adult. The letter confirms that the absent parent or guardian has given their consent. It can prevent significant delays at borders and airports.
Notarizations
Affidavits vs. Statutory Declarations — What's the Difference?
An affidavit is a written statement of facts that is sworn under oath before a Notary Public. A statutory declaration is a similar formal statement, but it is confirmed by solemn declaration (without an oath). Both are legally binding written statements. Affidavits are more commonly used in legal proceedings and court filings, while statutory declarations are often used for administrative purposes such as government submissions, insurance claims, and immigration applications.
International Documents
Authentication and Apostille — Documents for Use Abroad
Documents prepared in Canada sometimes need to be recognized by foreign governments or institutions. This often requires a multi-step authentication process. Edmonds Notary is registered with the BC Authentications Program and can guide you through the process of having your documents authenticated for international use, including documents destined for countries that are signatories to the Hague Apostille Convention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
A Notary Public in British Columbia is a legal professional commissioned by the Supreme Court of British Columbia. BC Notaries must hold a Master of Arts in Applied Legal Studies and are regulated in the public interest by the Society of Notaries Public of BC. They are authorized to prepare and witness a wide range of legal documents, provide legal advice on non-contentious matters, and administer oaths and affirmations.
All BC Notaries carry professional Errors and Omissions insurance through the Society of Notaries Public of BC — protecting you as a client in the event of any professional error.
Edmonds Notary specializes in estate planning and notarizations, including:
Wills and estate planning (Last Will & Testament, Enduring Power of Attorney, Representation Agreement, Advance Directive)
Affidavits and statutory declarations
Certified true copies
Letters of invitation and sponsorship
Travel consent letters for children travelling abroad
Authentication of documents for international use
Appointments take place at a location that works for you. For wills and estate planning, Eli can come to your home, hospital, or care facility. For simpler notarizations, a convenient meeting location can be arranged. Call or text to discuss your situation.
Appointments are available on a flexible basis. Contact us to find a time that works best for you.
Our fees are transparent and flat-rate:
Estate Planning:
Will — single person: $300 · couple: $500
Enduring Power of Attorney — single: $200 · couple: $350
Representation Agreement — single: $150 · couple: $250 Full Package (Will + PoA + Rep Agreement) — single: $550 · couple: $900
Notarizations & Certified True Copies:
First document: $30 + GST & PST · Each additional: $10
Exhibits (after the 4th): $10 each · Printing: $1/page over 10 pages
All prices in CAD before taxes. Contact us for a quote on international documents or complex matters.
Yes. Please bring 2 pieces of unexpired identification, with at least one being government-issued with a photograph (e.g., passport, driver's licence). We will confirm exactly what you need when you book.
Most appointments take 30 minutes to one hour depending on the service. Estate planning appointments (Will + Power of Attorney + Representation Agreement) typically take 60–90 minutes. We will give you an estimate when you book.
These three documents form a complete estate plan:
Will — takes effect after you pass away. Sets out how your estate is distributed and names an executor.
Enduring Power of Attorney — takes effect while you are alive. Authorizes someone to manage your financial and legal affairs, and continues to be valid even if you lose mental capacity.
Representation Agreement — authorizes someone to make personal care and health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
Most people benefit from having all three. Edmonds Notary can prepare all three in a single appointment.
Yes — for matters like wills and powers of attorney, Eli can visit clients in hospitals, care facilities, and seniors' homes. Please call ahead so we can ensure we bring the right documents and make proper arrangements.
Yes. We can guide you through the full authentication process. Please contact us for a specific quote.