What is Affidavit?

Definition and meaning of affidavit: An affidavit is a written statement, made under oath, that is used as evidence in a court of law. It is typically used when a witness is unable to appear in court, or when a party wants to provide a written statement for the court. The affidavit is signed by the affiant (the person making the statement) in front of a notary or other authorized official. Affidavits are often used in situations where the truth of a matter needs to be verified outside of a court setting.

Beyond court settings, affidavits are frequently utilized in administrative procedures and governmental processes. For instance, they can be required for passport applications, residency verifications, or to attest to the authenticity of documents. In business, affidavits might be needed to verify compliance with regulatory requirements or to confirm the truthfulness of financial statements.

The use of affidavits provides a means to present verified information without the need for in-person testimony, which can save time and resources for both the court and the parties involved. However, because an affidavit is a sworn statement, providing false information can result in serious legal consequences, including charges of perjury. As such, affidavits are a powerful tool in the legal system, ensuring that truthful and accurate information is presented in a formal, verifiable manner.