What is the purpose of an "affidavit" in Texas law?

The purpose of an "affidavit" in Texas law is primarily to serve as a written statement that is confirmed by an oath. This means that the individual making the affidavit swears to the truthfulness of the statements contained within the document, making it a credible piece of evidence that can be used in court. The reliance on oaths adds a level of authenticity and accountability, as making false statements in an affidavit could lead to charges of perjury.

Affidavits are commonly used in legal proceedings to provide testimony or factual information without requiring the affiant (the person who swears to the affidavit) to be present in court. They can support various legal motions, declarations, or other documents where written testimony may be necessary.

The other options provided do not accurately capture the essence of an affidavit's purpose in Texas law; instead, they describe different legal concepts or documents that serve distinct functions in the legal system. For instance, while it is true that certain legal documents may help prevent fraud, this is not the defining feature of an affidavit. Similarly, outlining property regulations pertains to different legal documents altogether, such as zoning ordinances or deeds. Lastly, a complaint filed with the court is a crucial step in initiating legal action but does not relate