An affidavit is a written statement made under oath, which is then sworn or affirmed before an oath commissioner or another authorized individual. This document serves as a declaration of the truthfulness and authenticity of the contents of a document being presented to a court. In essence, an affidavit is a guarantee of the accuracy and honesty of the information contained in the document being relied upon in legal proceedings.

The significance of affidavits lies in their ability to support any document or evidence presented to a court, such as a plaint, written statement, or rejoinder. By requiring an affidavit, the court ensures that any statement made before it is genuine, truthful, and free from misrepresentation or fraud. This is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the legal system and ensuring that justice is served fairly and accurately.

When drafting an affidavit, it is essential to state each fact in a separate paragraph, numbered consecutively. The information contained in the affidavit must be limited to facts that the deponent can attest to as true to their knowledge. Any false information or misrepresentation of facts is unacceptable and may result in criminal charges. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to ensure that all information provided in an affidavit is accurate, truthful, and complete.

In the Indian legal system, affidavits play a crucial role in presenting evidence before the court. According to the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, facts stated in an affidavit hold the value of an admission or denial, making them a valuable tool for proving points that might otherwise be difficult to establish. Affidavits are often used when a document is needed to support a plea, serving as a formal declaration of the facts presented in the document.

Interestingly, affidavits intended for filing in a court of law are exempt from stamp duty under the Indian Stamp Act, 1899. However, any affidavit used outside the legal realm requires the appropriate stamp duty as per the same Act. Additionally, affidavits filed before the court must be signed by the deponent and attested by an Oath Commissioner, ensuring their authenticity and reliability.

The Purpose of Affidavit:

An affidavit can be considered a formal written promise. It functions as a sworn statement, used to prove a particular point in legal proceedings. Such statements are often presented alongside other evidence or testimonies, contributing to the overall arguments and facts presented in a case.

The validity of an affidavit hinges on the deponent's understanding of its contents and their commitment to truthfulness. Furthermore, affidavits can play a crucial role in determining the financial status of individuals involved in a lawsuit, contributing to the overall fairness and informed decision-making process by the judge. Essentially, affidavits serve as a trustworthy declaration of truth, adding weight to the arguments presented in a legal dispute.

The Uses of Affidavits:

Affidavits play a multifaceted role in legal proceedings. They serve as affirmations of truth for a wide range of facts, including personal status, employment history, assets, and handwriting. They also verify accounts, confirm document possession, and serve as evidence in legal disputes.

In legal proceedings, affidavits are crucial for statutory declarations, such as correcting birth or death registries, establishing rights of way, and verifying property ownership. They also facilitate joint withdrawals from bank accounts, support student visa applications, and provide proof of debt or petitions filed in court.

Affidavits are essential in maintaining the integrity of legal processes. They ensure that factual statements are made under oath, supporting accuracy and accountability. Additionally, they provide truthful statements to the court when required, enhancing the reliability and credibility of information presented in legal matters.

Points to remember before making an affidavit:

Before submitting an affidavit, assess its necessity and identify the relevant authority. Court affidavits are typically fee-free, while others may require a minimal fee. Accurately gather declarant details, ensuring each point is presented in distinct paragraphs.

Properly verify the affidavit's contents as prescribed, and have it attested by an oath commissioner or notary. This verification and attestation are essential for ensuring the affidavit's authenticity and acceptance by the appropriate authority. By being made under oath, affidavits support the integrity and accuracy of the information presented, especially in legal contexts.

Essentials of an Affidavits:

An affidavit must adhere to certain criteria, including containing only verifiable facts known to the deponent. It must be properly verified, and if required by applicable rules, bear valid court-fee stamps. The attesting officer must certify the deponent's identity and acknowledgment of the affidavit's content. The oath must be administered by an authorized official or court.

Affidavits should clearly distinguish between statements of knowledge and information or belief. The source of any information must be disclosed. The contents must be read and vouched for by the deponent in a language they understand. Deponents who are unable to write may sign using a name stamp or mark.

Affidavits signed by officers of lower courts may not be admissible in higher courts. Statements retracting previous testimony are not admissible in appeals. False statements in affidavits can lead to prosecution. However, prosecution for false statements requires the administering official to be authorized to do so.

An affidavit with non-judicial stamps is inadmissible. The lack of a court seal does not invalidate an affidavit. An attested affidavit without proper certification is deficient.

Affidavits should be clear, well-organized, and composed of concise, numbered statements that focus on relevant facts. It is crucial to use the appropriate court form, ensure the affidavit is neat, with wide margins, and avoid using bold or underlined text. Including headings can help guide the reader, and beginning with your full name, address, and occupation, followed by the affidavit's purpose, can help establish trustworthiness.

When creating an affidavit, it is essential to ensure that all statements are true and accurate, using first-person language to describe only what you have personally experienced. Opinions, assumptions, arguments, and hearsay should be avoided, except in specific cases where exceptions apply. Focus on essential facts relevant to the dispute, organizing statements logically, and avoiding redundancy by refraining from repeating previously presented information. Use everyday language, and keep clarity and consistency in mind.

To maintain credibility and avoid annoying the judge, include only relevant and admissible information. If uncertain about specific details, be honest and accurate when describing conversations by detailing what was said, who said it, and where. When recounting events, include precise details such as dates, locations, and attendees, using language that accurately reflects the frequency of events, such as 'at least three times a week.' Emotions should be kept in check when creating an affidavit, avoiding exaggeration, personal attacks, and irrelevant details. Support your statements with relevant documents and explain how and when they came into your possession, following the court's specific rules for attaching documents.

Conclusion:
An affidavit holds significant legal weight as a sworn statement of facts, backed by an oath or affirmation. As a formal document, it serves as reliable evidence in court cases, enabling individuals to present crucial information without physically appearing in court. By pledging truthfulness under penalty of perjury, the affiant ensures the affidavit's reliability, making it comparable to oral testimony.

Admissible in various legal contexts, affidavits support motions, applications, and petitions. They provide a written account of pertinent facts, expediting proceedings and streamlining evidence presentation. Additionally, affidavits serve as vital documentation, offering a clear and concise record of events, observations, and statements.

This documentation not only supports claims but also enhances legal processes' transparency and efficiency. The legal value of an affidavit lies in its role as a verified, written declaration of facts, empowering individuals to assert their rights within the legal framework.

Courts generally accept affidavits prepared and witnessed according to their specific rules. However, it is always essential to check the particular rules of the court you are appearing in before filing your affidavit. This factsheet provides general guidance; however, it should not be considered legal advice.

Written By: Md.Imran Wahab, IPS, IGP, Provisioning, West Bengal
Email: [email protected], Ph no: 9836576565