What is the primary purpose of a written affidavit?

A written affidavit serves as a legally binding document wherein a person makes a sworn statement or declaration, affirming the truth of the content presented within it. The primary purpose is to confirm a statement under oath for use as evidence in court, which adds significant weight to the statement as it is made in a formal and legally recognized manner. This can help establish facts and support a party's position in legal proceedings.

Affidavits are commonly used in various legal contexts, such as motions, trials, and hearings, to provide evidence in a way that is considered credible and reliable due to the swearing-in process. This necessary element of taking an oath underscores the seriousness of the statement, as individuals know they can face legal repercussions for providing false information.

Other choices involve aspects of legal proceedings but do not capture the primary purpose of an affidavit. For example, while an affidavit can provide detailed accounts that may align with testimony, its main function is not merely to recount a witness's testimony but to serve as a sworn statement that is admissible as evidence. The mention of simplifying procedures or outlining legal fees and costs is unrelated to the intended purpose of an affidavit, which centers solely on providing sworn testimony.