Affidavit Of Good Conduct Template for England and Wales

An Affidavit of Good Conduct is a sworn legal document that formally declares your good character and absence of criminal convictions under England and Wales law. This document serves as official verification of your integrity and is commonly required for various professional, immigration, and regulatory purposes where character assessment is essential.

When do you need this document?

You will typically need an Affidavit of Good Conduct when applying for professional licenses in regulated industries such as finance, law, or healthcare. Immigration authorities often require this document for visa applications, particularly for work or residence permits. Educational institutions may request it for certain courses or positions, and employers in sensitive sectors frequently require character verification. The document is also commonly needed for volunteer positions involving vulnerable populations, adoption proceedings, or when applying for certain government positions or security clearances.

Key legal considerations

The affidavit must be sworn under oath before an authorized witness, typically a Commissioner for Oaths or Notary Public, making false statements a criminal offense under perjury laws. Your declaration must be truthful and complete, including full disclosure of any criminal convictions, pending charges, or ongoing legal matters. The document should clearly state the time period being covered and specify whether you're declaring conduct within England and Wales only or internationally. You must provide accurate personal details including full legal name, current address, date of birth, and identification documents. The affidavit should include your complete residency and employment history for the relevant period, as requesting authorities often verify this information independently.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

Under the Oaths Act 1978, the affidavit must be properly sworn before an authorized person who has the legal authority to administer oaths. The Commissioner for Oaths Act 1889 defines who can witness your affidavit, typically including solicitors, notaries public, and other legally appointed commissioners. The document must comply with the Civil Evidence Act 1995 regarding admissibility of sworn statements in legal proceedings. Your affidavit must follow the prescribed format including a formal opening statement declaring your identity and that the statement is made under oath. The witness must verify your identity using acceptable identification documents and sign the affidavit confirming they administered the oath properly. Keep certified copies for your records, as original documents are typically submitted to requesting authorities and may not be returned.