Which term describes a voluntary statement reduced to writing and sworn to or affirmed before a person who has the authority to administer an oath?

• A. A demand letter to settle a dispute
• B. A deed transferring property
• C. A proof of service
• D. A voluntary statement reduced to writing and sworn to or affirmed before an authority

Answer: (D)

An affidavit is a voluntary written statement of facts that is sworn to or affirmed before an authority empowered to administer oaths, such as a notary public or judge. The oath or affirmation under oath gives the statements legal weight and, if false, can expose the signer to perjury penalties. This makes affidavits a common tool in litigation to present sworn facts without the affiant needing to appear in court. It’s not a demand letter (which is just a settlement request), not a deed (which transfers property), and not a proof of service (which merely certifies that documents were served). So the described term precisely defines an affidavit.