02/09/2026
Affidavits and Statutory Declarations: Understanding the Difference
Full Blog: https://notaryservices.org.uk/f/affidavit-or-statutory-declaration-a-guide-to-the-difference
We are asked to notarise Statutory Declarations and Affidavits regularly, and it is common for clients to be unsure of the distinction between the two.
A Statutory Declaration is a formal written statement made under the Statutory Declarations Act 1835. No oath is required; the person instead declares the contents to be true. This is commonly used where no other supporting document is available, such as marrying abroad without a Certificate of No Impediment, or confirming a change of name.
An Affidavit is a written statement sworn under oath (or affirmed) before an authorised person (for example, a solicitor, a notary or a commissioner for oaths), and is used principally as evidence in court proceedings.
For documents intended for use outside the UK, notarisation by a Notary Public is generally required, as a solicitor's signature alone may not be recognised internationally.
We can assist with the witnessing and notarisation of Affidavits and Statutory Declarations; however, the information and statements to be included must be supplied by the person making the declaration, with or without assistance from their lawyer or adviser. We can then adapt the document where required so that its form and ex*****on are suitable for signing and notarisation in England and Wales.
At KS Notary Services Ltd. we can assist with the witnessing and notarisation of these documents and, where required, arrange subsequent Apostille legalisation and Consulate legalisation.
