What is an affidavit?
An affidavit is a written declaration which is accompanied by an oath or affirmation indicating that the contents of the affidavit are true. Someone may make an affidavit in connection with a court case, or an affidavit may be an important supporting document in something like a mortgage application. Many forms are also affidavits, since they include a line indicating that the person has completed the form to the best of his or her knowledge, and that deliberately erroneous information can result in a perjury charge. The word “affidavit” has been directly lifted from Latin, and it means that someone has “pledged their faith” in full knowledge of the law. It is an entirely voluntary document, and no member of the court can force someone to give an affidavit, although the court may require someone to give a deposition. A deposition differs from an affidavit because although both are written statements, a deposition includes cross examination. The contents of an affidavit reflect the pers
