An affidavit must be in writing and be sworn to or affirmed before some legally authorized officer. Statutes of some jurisdictions prescribe formal requirements for the affidavits. An affidavit is statement of facts which is sworn to before an officer who has authority to administer an oath (e.g. a notary public). The person making the signed statement (affiant) takes an oath that the contents are, to the best of their knowledge, true.
The Virginia Affidavit of Good Character in Connection with Petition for a Name Change is a legal document that accompanies a name change petition in Virginia. This affidavit serves as a testament to the person's good character and reputation within their community, emphasizing their moral integrity and credibility. It is an important supporting document that helps strengthen the case for a successful name change. In the state of Virginia, there are two main types of Affidavit of Good Character that can be used in connection with a name change petition: 1. General Affidavit of Good Character: This type of affidavit is typically filled out by individuals who personally know the petitioner and can vouch for their good character traits and reputation in the community. These may include friends, family members, neighbors, colleagues, or anyone who has had regular interactions with the petitioner and can provide honest insights into their character. 2. Professional Affidavit of Good Character: This affidavit is utilized when the petitioner has a professional reputation that they want to highlight to strengthen their name change case. This document is generally filled out by professionals who have worked closely with the petitioner, such as employers, supervisors, mentors, or professional colleagues. They can attest to the petitioner's professional competence, work ethics, honesty, and overall good character in a specific field. Both types of affidavits should include detailed information about the affine, including their full name, address, contact information, and their relationship or professional connection to the petitioner. The affidavit should also clearly state their knowledge of the petitioner's character and reputation, highlighting specific examples or instances that demonstrate the petitioner's good character. It is important to ensure that both the General and Professional Affidavits of Good Character are notarized by a licensed notary public, as this adds credibility and validity to the document. By providing these affidavits along with the name change petition, the petitioner can present a solid case to the court, showcasing their trustworthy and reputable character, which can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful name change approval.
