Affidavit

Affidavit, a solemn statement of a fact or facts known to or believed by the person making it, and attested by the oath of such person made before some person authorised to administer an oath, and according to the faith of the deponent. In England, and with Christians, on the Holy Gospels. Affidavits are also necessary in many cases to show that certain formalities have been observed, as in bankruptcy and probate. Formerly, an oath was always indispensable in affidavits, but Quakers, Moravians, and Separatists have long been privileged to make a solemn declaration or affirmation, in lieu of an oath. Affidavits abroad are usually made before the British Ambassadors or consuls. In England there are commissioners specially appointed, usually practising solicitors, for the purpose of administering oaths. Affidavits in all the English courts must be made and expressed in the first person.