What is an Affidavit?

An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by oath, affirmation, or declaration by an individual in front of someone who is authorized by law to take oaths, such as a notary public or a commissioner for taking oaths.

In most jurisdictions people no longer need to swear that their statements are true, they are permitted to make an affirmation or declaration. There is no difference in the legal validity of the affidavit regardless of whether the statement is sworn, affirmed or declared.

Affidavits can be used in a large variety of situations, such as:

• to confirm someone’s identity
• to confirm authenticity of a document
• by a witness in support of a lawsuit
• to confirm that authorization was validly given
• in immigration and licensing applications
• for use of documents in another jurisdiction

What information do Affidavits include?

Affidavits will include information, such as:

• a heading which identifies that it is an affidavit and what the affidavit pertains to, or is in support of,
• a number of statements, which the person is swearing are true,
• the date,
• the signature of the individual making the statement, and
• the signature (and sometimes the seal) of the person to whom the sworn statement was made, (usually a commissioner for taking oaths or a notary public).

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