What is the legal term for a formal statement made under oath?

The correct choice is the term "affidavit," which is a formal written statement made under oath, wherein the individual swears to the truth of the contents of the statement. This legal document is often used in court proceedings and legal processes to convey facts, provide evidence, or support a particular argument. It is essential for the credibility of the document that it is signed in the presence of an authorized official, such as a notary public, who verifies the identity of the signer and their sworn statement.

The other options present legal terms that do not accurately describe a formal statement made under oath. For instance, "allocution" refers to a defendant's opportunity to speak before sentencing, often to express remorse or explain circumstances surrounding the offense, rather than a written statement. "Affirm" is an action of asserting something to be true but does not encapsulate the concept of a formal, sworn document. Lastly, "ACTION" is a broad legal term that usually refers to a lawsuit or legal proceeding rather than specifically to a sworn statement. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why "affidavit" is the appropriate legal term for a formal statement made under oath.