Affidavits are a routine part of many court and tribunal proceedings in Ontario, from small claims and family matters to landlord and tenant hearings. Before an affidavit can be filed, it generally must be sworn or affirmed before a commissioner for taking affidavits. Here is what to expect.
What a commissioner does
- Confirms your identity using valid government-issued photo ID.
- Administers the oath or affirmation. You swear or affirm that the contents of your affidavit are true.
- Witnesses your signature, then signs and stamps the affidavit, including the jurat (the section showing where and when it was sworn).
- Commissions exhibits, where exhibit stamps or certificates are required.
What a commissioner does not do
- We do not draft your affidavit or tell you what to include.
- We do not check whether the facts are true or whether your affidavit meets the court’s rules.
- We do not give legal advice about your case or file documents on your behalf.
For help with the content or procedure, speak with a lawyer, a licensed paralegal, or the court’s self-help resources.
Preparing for your appointment
- Finish your affidavit completely, including all exhibits in the correct order.
- Do not sign it in advance.
- Check how many copies you need. Courts often require an original plus copies for other parties.
- Bring valid photo ID.
Exhibits
If your affidavit refers to documents as exhibits (for example, “Exhibit A”), each one typically needs to be marked and commissioned. Bring them organized and labelled, and let us know in advance how many there are.
Related reading
- Free template: General Affidavit (Ontario)
- Affidavit of translation
- Notary public vs. commissioner of oaths
- Notarization mistakes to avoid
- What ID do you need for notarization in Ontario?
Book with Crown Seal Notary
Crown Seal Notary serves Hamilton and the surrounding area seven days a week. In-office appointments are available at 21 King St W, 5th Floor, and our mobile service comes to your home, workplace, hospital or care home. To book, call 289-207-0851, email info@csnotary.org, or book online. You can also browse all of our services or read our FAQs.
Please note: Crown Seal Notary provides notarization and commissioning services only. We do not provide legal, immigration or financial advice, and we cannot tell you what to write in your document. If you are unsure which document you need, please check with the organization that asked for it or speak with a lawyer or licensed paralegal.
