What is the Difference Between Affidavit and Notary?

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An affidavit and a notary are two distinct concepts in the realm of legal documents. Here are the main differences between them:

  • Affidavit: An affidavit is a written statement filed by an affiant as evidence in court. It contains facts and information that the person believes to be true and correct. In order to be admissible, affidavits must be notarized by a notary public.
  • Notary: A notary is a person who has legal qualifications and is authorized to perform in legal matters, especially those that are not contentious and merely require him to certify the claims made by acting as a witness and giving his stamp of approval.

In summary, an affidavit is a legal document containing sworn statements, while a notary is a person who certifies the authenticity of such documents. To make an affidavit legally valid, it must be notarized by a notary public.

Comparative Table: Affidavit vs Notary

Here is a table that highlights the differences between an affidavit and a notary:

Aspect Affidavit Notary
Definition A written statement of facts, sworn or affirmed to be true before an authorized officer. A person authorized to perform legal tasks, such as witnessing signatures and certifying documents.
Purpose Used as evidence in legal proceedings and to support claims in various situations (e.g., obtaining legal certificates, buying or selling property). Ensures that an affidavit or other document is signed, witnessed, and notarized, making it legally binding.
Legal Formalities Requires notarization, signing in the presence of witnesses, and swearing that the facts contained are true and correct. Notaries are authorized by the state to verify signatures and confirm identities using valid forms of photo identification.

An affidavit is a formal written statement of facts that is sworn or affirmed to be true before a commissioner of oaths or another authorized officer. It is used as evidence in legal proceedings and to support claims in various situations. To make an affidavit legally binding, it must be notarized, signed in the presence of witnesses, and the affiant must swear that the facts contained in it are true and correct.

A notary is a person who has legal qualifications and is authorized to perform in legal matters, especially those that are not contentious and merely require him to certify the claims made by acting as a witness and giving his stamp of approval. Notaries are responsible for ensuring that an affidavit or other document is signed, witnessed, and notarized, making it legally binding.