Legal Definitions - sworn statement

A sworn statement is a formal declaration of facts made by an individual who has taken an oath or affirmation to tell the truth. This oath or affirmation legally binds the person to be truthful, and knowingly making false statements within a sworn statement can lead to severe penalties, including charges of perjury.

Here are some examples to illustrate the concept of a sworn statement:

• Courtroom Testimony: Imagine a witness testifying in a criminal trial. Before they begin speaking, they are asked to raise their right hand and swear or affirm to tell "the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth." Every word they utter on the stand after taking this oath constitutes a sworn statement. If they intentionally provide false information, they could face charges for perjury because their testimony was given under oath.

• Affidavit for a Property Dispute: Consider a situation where two neighbors are disputing the exact boundary line between their properties. One neighbor might prepare a written document, called an affidavit, detailing their historical knowledge of the boundary, including dates and observations. They would then sign this document in front of a notary public, swearing under penalty of perjury that the facts presented in the affidavit are true and accurate to the best of their knowledge. This signed and notarized document is a sworn statement that can be submitted as evidence in court.

• Insurance Claim for Damages: Suppose a homeowner experiences significant damage to their house due to a storm. When filing a claim with their insurance company, they might be required to provide a detailed written account of the damages, the circumstances of the storm, and a list of damaged items. This document often includes a section where the homeowner signs, affirming that the information provided is true and accurate to the best of their knowledge and belief, sometimes "under penalty of perjury." This signed declaration serves as a sworn statement to support their insurance claim.