Oath or Affirmation

In some cases, a client may need an oath or affirmation orally as part of a jurat​, affidavit or other written document. The purpose of administering a verbal oath or affirmation is to compel a client to truthfulness.

An oath is a solemn pledge to a Supreme Being. An affirmation is a solemn pledge on the individual's personal honor. Again, the choice should be made by the signer.

Administration of Oaths

• “A notary public may administer an oath and make a certificate thereof when it is necessary for the execution of any writing or document to be published under the seal of a notary public. The notary public may not take an acknowledgment of execution in lieu of an oath if an oath is required.” Fla. Stat. § 117.03.

• Examples of instances for which a notary public may administer an oath: affidavits, applications, depositions, vehicle identification number (VIN) verification, etc. Pursuant to Section 454.23, Florida Statutes, the taking of a deposition constitutes the practice of law. Pursuant to Section 117.01(4)(f), Florida Statutes, the Governor may suspend a notary public for any grounds constituting malfeasance, misfeasance, or neglect of duty, e.g. the unauthorized practice of law.

You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today. – Abraham Lincoln