What is an affidavit?

• A. Oral statement given to an officer
• B. Written statement signed and sworn to before an official
• C. A judicial order authorizing arrest
• D. A list of charges filed by prosecutor

Answer: (B)

An affidavit is a written statement of facts that a person signs and swears to be true before an official who is authorized to administer oaths. This sworn statement is used to present information to a judge or magistrate to show probable cause or facts needed to take action, such as issuing a search or arrest warrant. The oath adds weight and potential penalties for perjury if any part is knowingly false. This distinguishes it from an oral statement made to an officer, which isn’t sworn in writing, and from a judicial order like a warrant or a list of charges like an indictment or information.