Affidavit Validity Period
What is an Affidavit?
An affidavit is a sworn statement made in writing and executed before a person authorized to administer oaths, like a notary public. In the Philippines, affidavits serve various legal purposes—from providing evidence in court to supporting various types of applications.
Validity of an Affidavit
No General Expiry: An affidavit does not have a general "expiry date," but its acceptance may vary depending on the requirements of the institution or authority to which it is submitted.
Context Matters: The purpose for which the affidavit was created might impact its shelf life. For instance, some agencies may require affidavits dated within a specific period.
Legal Challenges: Over time, the factual veracity of an affidavit can be questioned, especially if new evidence surfaces that contradicts the statements in the affidavit.
Renewing or Updating an Affidavit
Subsequent Affidavit: If an institution questions the validity of an older affidavit, a new affidavit may need to be executed to update the information.
Legal Processes: In some instances, court proceedings might necessitate the issuance of a newer affidavit to replace or supplement an older one.
Storage and Care
Keep Originals: Always maintain the original copy of the affidavit for your records.
Digital Copies: While not a substitute for the original, having digital copies can be convenient for reference purposes.
Consult Legal Advice: When in doubt about the validity or acceptability of an affidavit, consult a legal expert to guide you through the complexities.
Conclusion
Understanding the concept of the validity period of an affidavit is crucial. While affidavits do not typically "expire," various factors like the purpose, context, and timing can affect their acceptability or reliability in legal procedures.