The person who makes a sworn statement, typically in writing, is the one who signs the affidavit and swears to its truthfulness before an authorized official, such as a notary public. For example, in a case involving a car accident, the person who witnessed the collision might submit a sworn statement detailing what they observed. This sworn statement, signed and notarized, would be their affidavit.
This individual’s role is crucial for establishing the credibility and legal validity of the document. Their sworn testimony provides evidence that can be used in court proceedings or other legal matters. Historically, affidavits have served as a vital tool for presenting evidence when a witness could not be physically present, and they continue to play an essential role in various legal processes, from real estate transactions to criminal investigations. The reliability of the sworn statement rests upon the individual’s understanding that they are attesting to the truth under penalty of perjury.
