Oaths, Affidavits and Statutory Declarations
A clear, efficient service for administering oaths, affidavits and statutory declarations.
If you have been told you must swear an oath or make a statutory declaration, the process is simpler than it sounds and can usually be completed in just a few minutes.
At Bennett Griffin, our solicitors and commissioners for oaths in Worthing and Chichester can help you quickly and with minimal fuss. Same‑day appointments are often available
What Types of Documents Can We Administer?
We administer oaths, affirmations, affidavits and statutory declarations required for court proceedings, government or professional applications, financial matters and other formal processes that require a sworn statement or declaration before a solicitor or commissioner for oaths.
If you are unsure whether your document needs to be sworn or declared, we will confirm this for you.
What Happens During Your Appointment?
Your appointment is designed to be quick and straightforward.
We will check that the document is complete and that you understand what you are swearing or declaring.
You will read a short statement aloud to confirm the contents are true, then sign in our presence.
We will complete the attestation wording to show it has been properly administered by a solicitor and commissioner for oaths.
Appointments typically take 5–10 minutes, and we guide you through each step.
Do You Need to Bring ID?
We would ask that you bring a form of photo ID, as this helps us confirm your identity and complete the appointment smoothly.
If you do not have an ID, please contact us before your appointment, as we may still be able to assist.
Fees
Fees for swearing oaths, affirmations and statutory declarations are set by law and are usually modest, starting at £5.
If your document includes multiple exhibits or attachments, we will explain the total fee before the appointment.
We will always make fees clear in advance.
Why Choose Bennett Griffin?
We understand how important it is to complete sworn documents quickly and correctly, particularly where they relate to property transactions, financial applications or identity matters.
At Bennett Griffin, you can expect:
- Same day appointments whenever possible
- Kind, clear and helpful guidance
- Experienced solicitors who complete this work every day
- Transparent fees with no surprises
- Convenient offices in both Worthing and Chichester
Our aim is to make a potentially stressful task feel simple and manageable.
Contact our Worthing or Chichester offices today to book a quick appointment.
We will make sure your document is completed correctly, efficiently and with complete peace of mind.
Preparing for Your Visit
Before attending, please make sure your document is fully completed and that any attachments or exhibits are included.
If you are unsure whether your paperwork is ready, you can email us a copy beforehand, and we will check it for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a solicitor to administer every sworn document?
Certain documents, including statutory declarations, affidavits, oaths and affirmations, must be administered by a solicitor or commissioner for oaths. If you are unsure, we can check your document and advise you. If the document is going to be used outside of the UK, you may need this to be dealt with by a Notary Public. A Notary Public is different to a solicitor. At Bennett Griffin we are able to offer Notary services, so we can give more information about this if required.
How long does it take to swear an oath or make a statutory declaration?
Most appointments take between 5 and 10 minutes. If your document includes exhibits or additional elements, it may take slightly longer, but the process remains quick.
Do I need ID to have a statutory declaration or affidavit witnessed?
Bringing ID is recommended.. If you do not have ID, please contact us before your appointment as we may still be able to assist.
How much does it cost?
Fees for oaths, affirmations and statutory declarations are set by law. If your document has multiple exhibits, a small additional fee may apply. We will confirm the cost before your appointment.
Can I walk in or do I need an appointment?
We recommend booking in advance to ensure a solicitor is available, but we will always try to accommodate urgent requests.
Do I have to be an existing client?
No. We can administer oaths, affidavits and statutory declarations for non‑clients.
Can you witness documents for people based outside West Sussex?
Yes. Although you will need to attend either our Worthing or Chichester office. Oaths and statutory declarations must be witnessed in person.