Swearing of Oaths and Statutory Declarations
Statutory Declarations And Swearing Of Oaths
In the UK, both statutory declarations and swearing an oath are legal formalities used to confirm the truthfulness of statements, but they serve different purposes.
Statutory Declaration
A statutory declaration is a legally binding written statement that a person voluntarily makes, affirming that certain facts are true. It is commonly used in situations where no other legal document exists to verify information, such as confirming identity, nationality, or ownership of assets. This declaration must be made in the presence of an authorised witness, such as a solicitor, notary public, justice of the peace, or commissioner for oaths. It is governed by the Statutory Declarations Act 1835 and carries legal consequences if found to be false, potentially leading to prosecution for perjury.
Swearing an Oath
Swearing an oath is a formal promise to tell the truth or fulfil a duty, often made by placing a hand on a religious text such as the Bible, Quran, or Torah. Oaths are commonly required in legal settings, such as court proceedings or when taking up certain public offices. For those who do not wish to swear a religious oath, an affirmation can be made instead, which carries the same legal weight but does not involve a religious element. Providing false information after swearing an oath can also lead to perjury charges.
Why Choose Us?
At Wildings Solicitors, we offer our services as Solicitors and Commissioners for Oaths for England and Wales, allowing us to formally witness declarations. As Commissioners for Oaths, we have the authority to take oaths or affirmations and witness the signing of legal documents, including declarations. This means that we can ensure the declaration is properly executed in accordance with the law, providing you with the necessary legal assurance that the document has been sworn or affirmed under the appropriate circumstances. We assist individuals and businesses in confirming the authenticity of their statements, helping to ensure that their documents are legally valid and recognised.
Book your initial consultation with our Solicitors in Birmingham. Freephone 0330 333 8797, request a callback or email info@wildings-solicitors.co.uk for specialist advice.
