Question

Legally an affidavit is

• A. a written statement made on oath, sworn before an authorized officer and submitted in the court
• B. an oral statement made on oath in the court
• C. a judgement delivered by a judge
• D. a record maintained in the court

Hint:

Remember: Affidavits are always written.
If a person lies in an affidavit, they can be prosecuted for perjury (giving false evidence).
This shows the legal weight of this document.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question is based on the topic of Legal Instruments and Court Procedures.
We need to identify the exact legal definition and nature of an "Affidavit".

Step 2: Key Concept or Approach:
The word "Affidavit" has Latin origins, meaning "he has stated on oath".
It serves as written evidence where the deponent declares the truthfulness of the facts stated therein.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

• Legally, an affidavit is defined as a written statement of facts.

• It must be made voluntarily under an oath or affirmation.

• The statement must be signed by the person making it (called the deponent).

• It must be sworn before an authorized officer, such as a notary public, commissioner of oaths, or magistrate.

• Let us evaluate the options:
-

Option (A): "a written statement made on oath..." - This is correct as it captures all essential elements: written form, oath, sworn before an authorized officer, and use in court.
-

Option (B): "an oral statement..." - This is incorrect. Oral statements made in court are called testimonies or oral evidence, not affidavits.
-

Option (C): "a judgement..." - This is incorrect. A judgment is delivered by a court, whereas an affidavit is submitted to the court by a party/witness.
-

Option (D): "a record maintained..." - This is incorrect as it refers to judicial records or registers.


Step 4: Final Answer:
An affidavit is legally a written statement made on oath, sworn before an authorized officer and submitted in court, which corresponds to Option (A).