An affidavit is a written statement that is made voluntarily by a person (called an affiant or deponent) under an oath or affirmation administered by someone authorized by law, such as a notary public. The affiant swears that the information contained in the document is true to the best of their knowledge, and the affidavit serves as evidence in legal proceedings. The document is signed by the affiant and the authorized person who administered the oath or affirmation. Key points about an affidavit:

• It is a sworn written statement.
• It must be made voluntarily and without coercion.
• It is witnessed by an authorized official who verifies the signature and administers the oath.
• It can be used as evidence in court when live testimony is not possible.
• Providing false information in an affidavit can lead to perjury charges.
• Affidavits often include a statement identifying the affiant, the facts being sworn to, and an attestation clause certifying the oath or affirmation.

Affidavits are used in many legal circumstances such as court cases, family law matters, bankruptcies, and administrative purposes to formally document facts in a sworn document that is legally binding.