An affidavit is a sworn statement before an official, usually a notary, in which the person states certain facts to be true. The following is general guidance on the topic:
- The affiant must have personal knowledge of the events at issue, meaning that he/she must have been present at the event.
- The affiant must identify himself/herself and recite how he/she knows the facts to be true. For example: “I am [Name], the aunt of [John Smith]. I was present at his birth and can state the following: He was born in (location) on (date) and his parents are (names).
- The affidavit can be handwritten or formally prepared, but must be made under oath and witnessed by an official (typically a notary).
- In the event the document is written in a foreign language, an English translation is required.