Sworn statement definition

A sworn statement, or sworn declaration, is a document with a statement that is given orally or written, under oath or penalty of perjury, with facts relevant to a legal proceeding.

A sworn statement is similar to an affidavit, the only difference being that a sworn statement does not need to be witnessed and sealed by a notary public. Instead, the declarant is required to sign a separate endorsement at the end of the document stating that the declaration made under penalty or perjury is true and correct.

Federal courts and some states have laws in place that allow a sworn statement in any matter where an affidavit can be used. However, sworn statements may not be permitted for some purposes depending on jurisdiction.

How to write a sworn statement

Once you make a sworn statement, you testify to the facts of an event, action or lawsuit. To do so:

1. Prepare a list of each fact to which you want to swear
2. Sign the bottom below with a sentence that indicates the statement is sworn and made under penalty of perjury (i.e. "Statement Under Penalty of Perjury")
3. Sign it before a notary