When you need to make a formal statement of fact that you swear to be true, a statutory declaration is often the way to go. This document carries significant legal weight and is used in many situations. Understanding how to structure and what to include in a Statutory Declaration Sample Letter can save you time and ensure your declaration is accepted.
What is a Statutory Declaration?
A statutory declaration is a written statement of fact that the person making it (the declarant) has signed and declared to be true in the presence of a solicitor, commissioner for oaths, or other authorised witness. It's a solemn promise, essentially saying, "I swear this is the truth to the best of my knowledge and belief." This makes it a powerful tool for legal and administrative purposes.
The importance of accuracy in a statutory declaration cannot be overstated. Making a false statutory declaration is a criminal offence, carrying serious penalties. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure all the information provided is correct and verifiable. When you're looking for a Statutory Declaration Sample Letter, you're seeking a template to guide you in crafting this important document.
- Key elements typically found in a statutory declaration include:
- The full name and address of the declarant.
- A clear and concise statement of the facts being declared.
- A declaration that the statement is true.
- The date and place of signing.
- The signature of the declarant and the authorised witness.
Statutory Declaration Sample Letter for Proof of Identity
To Whom It May Concern,
I, [Your Full Name], residing at [Your Full Address], do solemnly and sincerely declare that I am the individual named in the attached [Type of Document, e.g., expired passport, old driving licence] and that the photograph therein is a true likeness of myself.
I make this declaration for the purpose of [State the reason, e.g., establishing my identity for a new account application with XYZ Bank]. I understand that this declaration is a solemn statement made under the provisions of the Statutory Declarations Act 1835.
And I make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true.
Declared by [Your Full Name] at [Town/City] this [Day] day of [Month], [Year].
Before me,
[Signature of Authorised Witness]
[Printed Name of Authorised Witness]
[Qualification of Authorised Witness, e.g., Solicitor, Commissioner for Oaths]
Statutory Declaration Sample Letter for Lost Documents
To Whom It May Concern,
I, [Your Full Name], residing at [Your Full Address], do solemnly and sincerely declare that I have lost my [Type of Document, e.g., original birth certificate, academic transcript].
The last time I recall having the document was on or around [Approximate Date] at [Approximate Location, if known]. Despite diligent efforts to locate it, I have been unsuccessful. I have checked [List places searched, e.g., my home, my office, my car] and have made enquiries with [List individuals or institutions contacted, if applicable].
I make this declaration to confirm the loss of the said document, in order for me to apply for a replacement.
And I make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true.
Declared by [Your Full Name] at [Town/City] this [Day] day of [Month], [Year].
Before me,
[Signature of Authorised Witness]
[Printed Name of Authorised Witness]
[Qualification of Authorised Witness, e.g., Solicitor, Commissioner for Oaths]
Statutory Declaration Sample Letter for Change of Name
To Whom It May Concern,
I, [Your Full Name], formerly known as [Your Previous Full Name], residing at [Your Full Address], do solemnly and sincerely declare that I have changed my name from [Your Previous Full Name] to [Your Full Name].
This change of name has been effected by [State method of change, e.g., deed poll dated DD/MM/YYYY, commonly known by my new name since DD/MM/YYYY]. I use the name [Your Full Name] exclusively for all purposes.
I make this declaration to formally record my change of name and to enable me to update my records with various institutions.
And I make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true.
Declared by [Your Full Name] at [Town/City] this [Day] day of [Month], [Year].
Before me,
[Signature of Authorised Witness]
[Printed Name of Authorised Witness]
[Qualification of Authorised Witness, e.g., Solicitor, Commissioner for Oaths]
Statutory Declaration Sample Letter for Solemnisation of Marriage
To Whom It May Concern,
We, [Full Name of Party 1], of [Address of Party 1] and [Full Name of Party 2], of [Address of Party 2], do solemnly and sincerely declare as follows:
1. We intend to marry each other and that there is no lawful impediment to our proposed marriage.
2. We are both of legal age to marry in England and Wales.
3. We are not related to each other in a way that would prohibit marriage under the law.
4. [Include any other relevant declarations required by the registrar, e.g., confirmation of divorce if applicable].
We make this declaration for the purpose of solemnising our marriage at [Name of Registry Office or Venue] on [Date of Marriage].
And we make this solemn declaration conscientiously believing the same to be true.
Declared by [Full Name of Party 1] at [Town/City] this [Day] day of [Month], [Year].
Declared by [Full Name of Party 2] at [Town/City] this [Day] day of [Month], [Year].
Before me, (for each declarant)
[Signature of Authorised Witness]
[Printed Name of Authorised Witness]
[Qualification of Authorised Witness, e.g., Registrar, Solicitor]
In conclusion, a Statutory Declaration Sample Letter serves as an invaluable guide for anyone needing to make a formal, sworn statement. By understanding the structure and content of these declarations, and by using a reliable sample letter, you can confidently prepare your document. Always remember to seek advice from a legal professional if you have any doubts about the process or the wording required for your specific situation.