What is an "affidavit"?

An "affidavit" is a legal document that consists of a written statement made under oath or affirmation. This means that the person making the affidavit declares that the information contained within it is true to the best of their knowledge and belief, and they typically do this in front of a notary public or another authorized official. The purpose of an affidavit is to present facts in a legal proceeding, often as evidence to support a motion or claim. Since it is sworn, it carries significant weight in court, as it can be used to verify the truthfulness of the statements made.

The other options do not accurately describe what an affidavit is: a courtroom hearing pertains to proceedings in court, a legal document that is not sworn would lack the necessary affirmation required for an affidavit, and a method of cross-examination relates to questioning in court rather than a specific document. Understanding the precise nature of an affidavit is crucial in civil practice, as it plays a vital role in how information is presented and verified in legal contexts.