What does an affidavit represent in legal terms?

An affidavit is a written statement of facts that is declared to be true by the individual making it, often referred to as the affiant. This declaration is made under oath, meaning that the affiant swears that the information provided is accurate to the best of their knowledge, which adds a level of legal accountability to the statement. Affidavits are commonly used in legal proceedings to present evidence or support motions, as they provide a documented account of facts that can be relied upon in court.

In contrast, a contractual agreement refers to a mutual understanding between parties that is enforceable by law, which is not the purpose of an affidavit. Similarly, a type of insurance claim involves a request for payment based on a policyholder's loss, irrelevant to the nature of an affidavit. Oral testimony, while an important aspect of legal processes, differs fundamentally from an affidavit as it is spoken in court rather than written and sworn to. The nature of an affidavit is rooted in its role as a formal written document asserting specific facts, making the recognition of it as a written statement of facts made under oath crucial for its usage in legal contexts.