An affidavit is a written statement made under oath, used as a legal document in various situations. It is typically signed by the person making the statement, known as the affiant, and is often used in court cases to provide evidence or support claims. The affiant must swear that the information in the affidavit is true to the best of their knowledge. Affidavits can be used in many legal contexts, such as in divorce proceedings, property disputes, or to verify identity. They serve as a way to present facts without requiring the affiant to appear in court, making them a valuable tool in the legal process.