Family Disputes: When and Why You Need a Notarized Affidavit

Family disputes can be stressful and emotional, especially when they end up in court. In Ontario, one of the most common documents used in family law matters is an affidavit. It’s essentially a sworn written statement of facts, and in many cases, it needs to be notarized before a judge or tribunal will accept it. 

If you’re going through a separation, custody disagreement, or another family matter, understanding when and why you need a notarized affidavit can save you time and frustration.

What Is an Affidavit?

An affidavit is a written document where you, the “deponent,” state facts that you swear or affirm to be true. By signing in front of a notary public, you’re confirming that what you’ve written is accurate to the best of your knowledge.

Think of it as giving testimony but in writing instead of speaking in court. Because affidavits are sworn statements, they carry legal weight.

Why Affidavits Matter in Family Disputes

In family law, affidavits are used to provide clear, documented evidence. Judges rely on them to understand your side of the story without requiring you to speak in person for every detail.

Examples include:

• Custody and access disputes: Explaining your living situation, work schedule, or why a parenting arrangement is best for the child.
• Child support or spousal support: Laying out financial details like income and expenses.
• Divorce proceedings: Confirming facts about the marriage, separation, or property.
• Guardianship matters: Stating why you’re seeking guardianship of a child or dependent adult.

Having your affidavit notarized ensures the court knows it was signed properly and truthfully.

Now Let’s Break It Down

Imagine you live in Pickering and are in the middle of a custody case. The court asks you to submit an affidavit explaining your weekly schedule and your child’s routine. A notarized affidavit confirms you are the one making the statement and that you’ve sworn it’s true. This helps the judge rely on your written evidence when making decisions.

Why Notarization Matters

Notarization adds credibility and protection to your affidavit. An Ontario notary will:

• Verify your identity with government-issued ID
• Ensure you understand the contents of the document
• Confirm you are signing voluntarily
• Apply their official seal, making the affidavit valid for court use

Without notarization, the court may reject the affidavit, causing delays in your case.

Remote and Mobile Options

You don’t always need to travel to a notary’s office. With remote online notarization, you can swear an affidavit over a secure video call from home. If in-person support is preferred, mobile notary services from Notable Notary can come to you in Ajax, Pickering, Whitby, or other nearby communities.

How Notable Notary Can Help

At Notable Notary, we understand that family disputes are often sensitive and time-sensitive. We make the process of notarizing affidavits simple, whether you need:

• General notary services for affidavits and declarations
• Mobile notarization at your home or office
• Remote online notarization when traveling isn’t an option

We also offer guidance on what to bring, how to prepare your affidavit, and what the court expects.

Family disputes can be overwhelming, but preparing your documents properly doesn’t have to be. A notarized affidavit gives your case credibility and ensures your side of the story is recognized in Ontario courts.

📞 Call Us: (289) 312-6678
🌐 Book Online: notablenotary.ca/book-now
📧 Email: info@notablenotary.ca

At Notable Notary, we’re here to support you through life’s most important moments.