What is an affidavit?

An affidavit is specifically defined as a written statement made under oath. This means that the person writing the affidavit is affirming that the information contained within it is true to the best of their knowledge, and they are willing to stand by that statement in a legal context. Affidavits are often used in legal proceedings to present evidence or testimony and carry a level of credibility because they are sworn statements.

This is distinct from the other options. For instance, an informal statement of opinion does not have the legal weight of an affidavit, as it is merely someone's belief and not sworn or verified. Similarly, while a legal document detailing fire damage may be part of an investigation, it is not classified as an affidavit unless it is sworn under oath. A summary of investigative findings may provide a comprehensive overview of evidence, but it does not involve the sworn testimony aspect that an affidavit does. The emphasis on the sworn nature of the statement is what firmly establishes why 'a written statement made under oath' is the correct definition of an affidavit.