What is the legal status of an affidavit when signed?

An affidavit holds a significant legal status because it is a sworn statement made under penalties of perjury. This means that when an individual signs an affidavit, they are affirming that the information contained within it is true to the best of their knowledge, and that they understand they could face legal repercussions for providing false information. The act of signing an affidavit typically involves a notary public who verifies the identity of the signer and witnesses the signing, adding another layer of authenticity and legal weight to the document.

The importance of the affidavit lies in its use as a credible piece of evidence that can be presented in court or other legal proceedings. Since contriving or misrepresenting facts in an affidavit could lead to penalties, the statement must be truthful and reliable, distinguishing it from mere personal opinions or informal agreements that lack such legal backing.