What is the function of an affidavit in civil proceedings?

An affidavit serves the important function of providing sworn evidence to the court in civil proceedings. It is a written statement of fact, which is made under oath or affirmation, and is used to present evidence in a formal manner. The person making the affidavit, known as the deponent, attests that the contents of the document are true to the best of their knowledge, thus lending credibility to the information being presented.

The use of affidavits is particularly important because they allow parties to submit evidence without the need for oral testimony in every instance, streamlining the process of presenting facts to the judge. This is especially valuable in motions and other pre-trial procedures, where timely and clear presenting of evidence can significantly influence the direction of a case.

Other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of an affidavit. For instance, while listing parties involved and summarizing witness statements may occur in different contexts, they do not encapsulate the essence of an affidavit's role in civil proceedings. Arguing the merits of a case is typically done through legal submissions and oral arguments rather than through affidavits, which strictly serve to present evidence rather than advocate for a position.