affidavit

thumb|Vasil Levski's affidavit, 16 June 1872, Bucharest, Romania

An '''''' ( ; Medieval Latin for 'he has declared under oath') is a written statement voluntarily made by an affiant or deponent under an oath or affirmation which is administered by a person who is authorized to do so by law. Such a statement is witnessed as to the authenticity of the affiant's signature by a taker of oaths, such as a notary public or commissioner of oaths. An affidavit is a verified statement or showing. An affidavit is made under oath on penalty of perjury. An affidavit serves as evidence of the truth of the statements it contains and is commonly required in court proceedings.