Commissioner of Oaths
What’s on this page?
Overview
Commissioner of Oaths Services are provided by appointment ONLY.
Please contact Beth Readman by email at breadman@lennox-addington.on.ca, or by phone at 613-354-4883, ext. 3233 to schedule your appointment.
What is a Commissioner of Oaths?
A Commissioner of Oaths is an individual authorized to administer and witness the swearing of oaths or solemn affirmations in the taking of an affidavit for any potential legal matter. Commissioners of Oaths are also empowered to witness any declaration as required under a statute. The key role of a Commissioner of Oaths is to ensure that the required legal formalities are observed and that the person taking the oath or making the affirmation is who they claim to be and understands the contents of the documents. In the context of municipal services, such as in the County of Lennox & Addington, municipal clerks and other designated officials are Commissioners of Oaths.
- Please click here to access a copy of our Affidavit Document
FAQs
Is a Commissioner of Oaths and a Notary Public the same thing?
No, if a document says that it must be signed by a Notary Public, then our Commissioners can not sign it. In Ontario, a Notary Public is a lawyer.
Is a Commissioner obliged to sign my document?
No, if the document is incomplete or if there is any question of its authenticity then the Commissioner of Oaths will not sign the document. It is at the exclusive discretion of the Commissioner of Oaths whether they sign a document or not – this is not a mandatory public service.
The Basics
What to Expect During the Appointment
Please bring proper identification (with photo ID) such as a valid driver’s license, current passport or any other government-issued photo identification. We aren’t able to commission your document without seeing it first.
You will be asked to sign the document in front of the commissioner, but please complete the rest of the form before you come to the office.
Commissioners can not prepare or edit your affidavits, or provide you with legal advice. Please use the link below to access a copy of our blank affidavit document.
- Please click here for a copy of our Affidavit Document
Documents That Can be Signed
1. Consents to Travel
2. Residency Documentation
3. Vehicle Transfers
4. Change of Ownership
5. Name Change
6. Insurance Claims
7. Pension Plan Documents
8. Proof of Life Documents from other countries.
9. Certification of Identifiable Individual’s Signature
10. Any Government-related Forms
Documents That Cannot be Signed
- Age of Majority/Bring Your Identification (BYID) card application
- Bank/Financial forms
- Court related documents (Legal and/or Civil)
- Custody documents
- Divorce, separation, marriage or cohabitation documents/agreements
- Documents that require the signature of a Notary Public
- Documents requiring the signature of a guarantor (with the exception of a Canadian Passport)
- Estate settlement documents
- Incomplete documents
- International educational institution or association documents, including photographs
- Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services Family Responsibility Office forms
- Power of attorney
- Real estate related documents/statements/transfer of land documents
- Wills, living wills, codicil to a will
Free Services
The County of Lennox & Addington is pleased to provide Commissioning Services at no charge.
Privacy and Confidentiality
Commissioners will never keep copies of your I.D. or documents and will follow all County of Lennox & Addington privacy policies.
Service Hours and Location Details
Commissioning services are provided by appointment at the County of Lennox & Addington Court House, 97 Thomas Street East, Napanee. The entrance is at the North end of the building, near the large parking lot and is fully accessible.
Legal Disclaimers
The content of the documents you provide is your sole responsibility. Commissioners can not provide legal advice.
