In the UK, a statutory declaration is a legal document where an individual solemnly declares something to be true to the best of their knowledge, typically in the context of legal proceedings or official statements. Solicitors play a pivotal role in this process. Here’s how they are involved:
Preparation: Solicitors can help draft the statutory declaration to ensure it meets legal requirements and accurately reflects the necessary information. They provide expert advice on the content, especially in complex cases, thus helping to avoid omissions or inaccuracies that could invalidate the declaration.
Commissioning: A statutory declaration must be made in the presence of a qualified official, like a solicitor or a commissioner for oaths. Solicitors act as commissioners for oaths, thus they are authorised to witness the declaration, ensuring the person making the declaration understands their statement is true and made voluntarily.
Advice: During the process, solicitors advise the declarant on the legal implications of their declaration, including any potential liabilities if it is later found to be false.
Verification: Solicitors may help verify any accompanying evidence or documents related to the statutory declaration, which can be especially important in cases involving complex situations or significant legal transactions.
In summary, solicitors guide individuals through the legal intricacies of making a statutory declaration, ensuring compliance with legal standards and helping to uphold the integrity of the legal process.