A family law notary is a legal professional who assists individuals in all stages of family life. Whether it’s drafting a marriage contract, organizing the consequences of a separation, writing a will, or protecting vulnerable individuals, notaries play a central role in ensuring the legal and financial security of every family. Acting as a notary public, they provide legally binding acts that comply with Québec law.
Across Quebec, families call on notaries to guide them through the process and anticipate situations that could create conflict or uncertainty.
Why consult a family law notary ?
Consulting a family law notary helps secure relationships between family members and ensure that legal documents comply with the Civil Code of Québec. Whether you are married, in a civil union, or in a common-law relationship, a notary can offer solutions tailored to your situation. The notary may advise you on your family patrimony, provide guidance on spousal relationships, plan for the distribution of property in the event of separation, and draft the relevant notarized deeds.
The notary’s role is not limited to drafting deeds: they also advise, tailor solutions, and help families avoid disputes. Through professional notary services, the notary can guide couples in choosing a matrimonial regime, ensure the protection of children or vulnerable persons, and assist with adoption procedures. Notaries are allies in all matters related to human rights and family law, including the formal declaration and affidavit preparation when required by law.
Our family law services
Contracts and matrimonial regimes
Our family law notary assists couples in choosing a matrimonial regime that suits their relationship. Whether you opt for separate property, community property, or another type of regime, we will draft a clear and personalized marriage contract. Each contract may require notarization to ensure its enforceability. Every family situation is unique, and our approach aims to advise you on family assets, anticipate potential conflicts, and ensure a fair settlement in the event of separation or divorce.
Civil union
The family law notary assists couples in the context of a civil union with the legal organization of their life together. They draft the civil union contract, explain the rights and obligations of the spouses, and advise on the choice of a matrimonial regime suited to their situation. The notary advises spouses on family assets, draws up agreements in the event of separation, and helps protect children. Each step is personalized to ensure that the couple’s life is legally protected and that the services offered meet the specific needs of civil union couples.
Agreement between common-law spouses
For common-law spouses, the notary offers cohabitation agreements that establish the rights and obligations of each party. These legal agreements provide security for cohabitation, protect spouses, and provide a framework for the distribution of assets in the event of a breakup. The notary can certify these agreements. Our advice is aimed at personalizing each agreement so that it reflects the reality of your life as a couple.
Separation and amicable divorce
In the event of separation or divorce, the family law notary helps draft an amicable agreement covering the division of family assets and joint property, alimony, and child custody arrangements. We support families through every step of the process, right up to the approval of the agreement. By notarizing a document, the notary is an ally in ensuring a fair settlement and avoiding legal complications.
Adoption and parentage
Notaries specializing in family law assist with adoption and parentage recognition procedures. They draft the necessary notarized documents and declarations, and provide advice tailored to each situation. The aim is to ensure legal compliance and protect the rights of the child while securing the relationships between spouses and descendants.
Protection of vulnerable persons
For incapacitated or vulnerable persons, the notary offers the establishment of a protection mandate, the implementation of measures to protect persons in a state of incapacity, and the drafting of powers of attorney. These measures make it possible to anticipate situations of incapacity, guide legal decisions, and ensure compliance with personal directives.
Wills and estate planning
Notaries draft notarized wills, coordinate estate planning, and register documents in the appropriate registry. They advise on wills and protection mandates, ensure legal compliance, and help convey last wishes while respecting the interests of the family. Each solution is personalized to respect the wishes of each individual and prepare for the future in accordance with family law.
Regulation of notaries in family law
Notaries practicing family law must comply with the rules of the Civil Code of Québec and case law, and are supervised by the Chambre des notaires du Québec (Quebec Chamber of Notaries). Every notarized document (marriage contract, will, cohabitation agreement, or protection mandate) must comply with these standards to ensure its legal validity.
Notaries must inform their clients, explain the consequences of each step, and act with professionalism and impartiality. These regulations protect families and make notaries true allies in securing the rights and assets of households throughout Quebec.
Why choose our notary office?
Professionalism : Our notary office in Montreal provides rigorous and expert notary services in all matters of family law and personal law.
Responsiveness : We respond quickly to your requests and guide families through all legal procedures.
Availability : Our advisors are available to explain the procedures and implications of each notarial act and answer questions as quickly as possible.
Clear explanations : We translate family law into simple, understandable terms so that every decision is an informed one.
Personalized support : We tailor our solutions to your family situation, whether you are in a common-law relationship, married, or in a civil union.
Legal protection : The notary is an ally in securing your assets, drafting wills and protection mandates, and helping you understand all the consequences of the matrimonial regime.
Contact our family law notary
For tailored advice and peace of mind, contact our family law notary. We work in Quebec to guide families, draft notarized deeds, and provide comprehensive support at every stage of family life
Frequently asked questions
When should you consult a notary specializing in family law?
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It is advisable to consult a notary specializing in family law whenever there is a significant change in your relationship or family life: marriage, common-law union, separation, divorce, adoption, estate planning, or protection of a vulnerable person.
What services does a notary specializing in family law offer?
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Notaries draft marriage contracts, cohabitation agreements, wills and protection mandates, estate planning, support during separation or divorce, adoption, and protection of vulnerable persons.
What are the average fees for a family law notary?
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The fees charged by a family law notary vary depending on the complexity of the case, the time required, and the level of support requested. Fees are generally explained at the beginning of the mandate to ensure a clear and transparent relationship.
How long does a consultation with a family law notary take?
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The duration depends on the service requested. A consultation for quick advice can last 30 to 45 minutes, while drafting a notarial deed or adapting a matrimonial regime may require several meetings.
Can a notary practice anywhere in Quebec?
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Yes, family law notaries can assist families anywhere in Quebec, ensure the legal compliance of deeds, and guide the process in accordance with the Civil Code of Quebec.
How do I make an appointment with a family law notary?
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Simply contact the notary’s office to schedule an appointment. The family law notary will be able to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and propose solutions tailored to your family situation.