Origin

Derived from Medieval Latin affidavit, meaning “he has declared upon oath,” from ad (“to”) and fidare (“to trust”).

Definition

An affidavit is a written statement of facts that is sworn or affirmed to be true before an authorised person, such as a solicitor, commissioner for oaths, or practising lawyer.

In Irish legal proceedings, affidavits are commonly used in civil court applications to present evidence without requiring oral testimony.

If a person knowingly makes a false affidavit, they may commit perjury, which is a criminal offence in Ireland.