Court Reporter Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes a "sworn statement"?

1. A declaration made in public

2. An unsworn letter from an attorney

3. A written testimony confirmed under oath

4. A verbal agreement between parties

The correct answer is: A written testimony confirmed under oath

A "sworn statement" is defined as a written testimony that has been confirmed under oath. This means that the individual providing the statement has affirmed that the information contained within it is true to the best of their knowledge, typically in the presence of a notary public or another authority. This process adds a layer of legal accountability, as oath-taking can be subjected to perjury laws if the individual deliberately provides false information. The distinction of a sworn statement lies in its formal nature and the legal ramifications that accompany it. It is often used in legal proceedings to provide evidence that can be relied upon by courts. In contrast, the other options do not encompass the formalities and legal weight of a sworn statement. For instance, a public declaration lacks the requirement of an oath, while unsworn letters, even if authored by an attorney, do not carry the same significance. Similarly, a verbal agreement lacks the written documentation and formal oath-taking process that qualifies a sworn statement.