Affidavit

In one sentence

A written statement sworn under oath before an authorized official, used as evidence in court.

Plain English

An affidavit is a document where someone writes down facts they know to be true and swears under oath that everything in it is accurate. A notary public or other authorized official witnesses the oath. Affidavits are used in court proceedings as evidence without the person having to testify in person. Lying in an affidavit is perjury, a serious crime.

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Example

A witness to a car accident submits an affidavit describing what she saw, and the court accepts it as evidence even though she doesn't appear at trial.

Used in a sentence

“The defendant submitted an affidavit denying the allegations in the complaint.”

Related terms

Subpoena

A court order requiring someone to testify in court or produce documents or evidence.

Deposition

A formal out-of-court questioning of a witness or party under oath, with a transcript recorded.

Impeachment

Attacking a witness's credibility or reliability by presenting contradictory evidence.

incriminating statement

A statement made by someone that suggests they committed a crime or participated in criminal activity.

Voir Dire

The questioning process used to select impartial jurors for a trial.

Hearsay

An out-of-court statement offered to prove the truth of what it asserts.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.