Supplementary Affidavit Template for England and Wales

When legal proceedings are ongoing, you may discover additional information or need to correct details in an affidavit you've already filed. A Supplementary Affidavit allows you to add new facts, clarify existing statements, or make necessary corrections to your original sworn statement while maintaining the legal integrity of your evidence.

When do you need this document?

You'll need a Supplementary Affidavit when new evidence comes to light after filing your original affidavit, when you discover errors in your initial statement, or when circumstances change significantly during proceedings. This commonly occurs in family court cases where financial situations change, in commercial disputes where new documents are discovered, or in personal injury claims where medical conditions develop differently than expected. The document is also essential when opposing parties raise points that require additional clarification of your original evidence.

Key legal considerations

Your Supplementary Affidavit must clearly reference the original affidavit by case number, date, and court details. Each new piece of information should be presented in numbered paragraphs with specific facts rather than opinions or legal arguments. You must include a statement of truth confirming that you believe the additional facts to be true, and understand that proceedings for contempt may be brought against you if you make false statements. The document cannot contradict your original affidavit without proper explanation, as this could undermine your credibility. Remember that both affidavits will be read together by the court, so consistency and clarity are crucial.

Legal requirements in England and Wales

Under Civil Procedure Rules Part 22, your Supplementary Affidavit must include a statement of truth and be signed by you as the deponent. The document must be sworn before a Commissioner for Oaths, solicitor, or other person authorized under the Commissioners for Oaths Act 1889 and Solicitors Act 1974. Your affidavit must follow the format requirements in Practice Direction 32, including proper numbering of paragraphs and clear identification of exhibits. The Oaths Act 1978 governs the swearing process, allowing for affirmations instead of oaths for those with religious objections. False statements in your affidavit could result in perjury charges under the Perjury Act 1911, making accuracy paramount. The court has discretion under the Supreme Court Act 1981 to accept or reject supplementary evidence, so timing and relevance are important factors in filing.