What is a formal statement made under oath?

A formal statement made under oath is accurately described as an affidavit. An affidavit is a written statement confirmed by the oath or affirmation of the party making it, typically used as evidence in legal proceedings. It carries legal weight and can be used to present facts in court, making its status as an sworn document crucial.

While a declaration may also convey facts and can sometimes be made under penalty of perjury, it does not necessarily require the same formal oath process that an affidavit does. Testimony refers to a statement made by a witness, typically in a courtroom setting, but is not written and does not involve a sworn document submitted outside of the courtroom context. A complaint is a formal legal document that initiates a lawsuit, outlining the plaintiff's claims against the defendant, but it is not a sworn statement. Thus, the definition of an affidavit aligns perfectly with the requirement for a formal statement made under oath.