Notary signatures often raise eyebrows due to their seemingly hefty price tags. We will answer a common question “why exactly are they so expensive?”  The answer lies in the nature of the service provided and the responsibilities shouldered by notaries.

Notarising a Document

Firstly, consider the meticulous process involved in notarising a document. Notaries are entrusted with verifying the identities of signatories, ensuring they are signing under their own volition and are aware of the document’s contents. This meticulousness demands time and attention to detail, driving up the cost.

Moreover, notaries assume legal liability for the documents they notarise. In essence, they certify the authenticity of signatures and the validity of documents. This responsibility comes with risks, as any oversight or error could have legal repercussions. To mitigate this risk, notaries often invest in professional liability insurance, adding to the overall cost.

Furthermore, notaries undergo specialised training and certification to perform their duties. This expertise commands a premium, as it ensures accuracy and compliance with legal standards. Additionally, notaries must stay abreast of evolving laws and regulations, requiring ongoing education and training, which adds to their operational costs.

The scarcity of notaries also contributes to their pricing. Notaries are often in high demand, especially in legal, real estate, and financial transactions. As a result, they can afford to charge higher fees for their services.

Another factor to consider is the overhead costs associated with maintaining a notary practice. This includes expenses such as office space, equipment, software, and administrative support. These overhead costs are factored into the pricing structure of notary services.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the perceived high cost of notary signatures is a reflection of the specialised nature of the service, the legal liabilities assumed by notaries, the scarcity of qualified professionals, and the overhead costs associated with their practice. While the price may seem steep, it is a testament to the importance and value of the notarial profession in ensuring the integrity and legality of documents.

Navjot Singh of Pannu Lawyers provides notary services Monday – Sunday. His charges are as follows:

1. Non urgent certification of up to 5 pages $121.00 including GST
2. Urgent certification of up to 5 pages $198.00 including GST
3. Witnessing signature on Power of Attorney $275.00 including GST
4. Identifying additional witness to Power of Attorney  $110.00 including GST 
5. Notarisation of Valkalatnama for India $275.00 including GST
6. Invitation letter for Immigration $275.00 including GST
7. Notarisation of Affidavit $275.00 including GST
8. Notarisation letter of guarantee $275.00 including GST
9. Criminal History Documents $275.00 including GST

The above prices are correct as of 13 May 2024 and are subject to change. To obtain a formal quotation, please contact 02 9920 1787 and speak to Bhavika Gulati in the accounts team.