WHAT IS A STATUTORY DECLARATION?

A statutory declaration is a document which formalizes matters to be made known publicly and is equally as legally binding as an affidavit. Statutory declarations are based on statute law format and content requirements, and is a solemn statement made by a plaintiff or a witness, instead of an oath.

The individual who is making a declaration is called the declarant.

Statutory declarations are usually sworn as follows:

“I, [name], solemnly declare that [state the facts declared to], and I make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing it to be true and knowing that it is of the same legal force and effect as if made under oath.”

The declarant must also answer to: “Do you, John Doe, declare that the contents of this declaration are true to the best of your knowledge, information and belief, knowing that it is of the same force and effect as if it were made under oath?”