Answer to Question #13

A client presents a statutory declaration with the wording “I, [client’s name], of [client’s town/city], solemnly and sincerely declare that…”

What is the most appropriate course of action?

a) Take the declaration, as this wording fulfils the legal requirements.

b) Ask the client to add their occupation after their town/city.

c) Advise the client that the declaration must be sworn under oath in this format.

d) Explain to the client that this is an affidavit, not a statutory declaration.

Rationale: This question assesses the JP’s understanding of the correct wording for statutory declarations.

The JP Manual emphasizes the specific format prescribed by the Oaths and Declarations Act 1957.

It states: “A statutory declaration must begin with: I, (full name of declarant) of (place of abode and occupation) solemnly and sincerely declare that

(Here follow the facts that are declared, usually numbered in paragraphs).”

The wording provided in the question is incorrect because it omits the declarant’s occupation. 

 Option b) is therefore the correct course of action.