An affidavit is a sworn written statement made under oath for legal or administrative purposes. It serves as a formal declaration in which a person confirms that the information they are providing is true to the best of their knowledge. A notary, acting in the role of Commissioner for Oaths, verifies the identity of the individual making the affidavit, ensures that the document is signed in their presence, and formally administers the oath or affirmation.
The contents of an affidavit set out the person’s own account of facts, circumstances, or events, and the person assumes full responsibility for the truthfulness of those statements. Affidavits are commonly required in a wide range of situations, including court proceedings, succession and inheritance matters, applications for interdiction or incapacitation, as well as insurance and administrative claims, providing legally-binding testimony to support and strengthen applications or claims.
