Information and belief

In the law of evidence, the phrase information and belief identifies a statement that is made, not from firsthand knowledge, but "based on secondhand information that the declarant believes is true".[1]

The phrase is often used in legal pleadings, declarations under penalty of perjury, and affidavits under oath.[2] It is often used in a phrase similar to: "The plaintiff is informed and believes, and upon such information and belief alleges".[3] This "protects the maker of the statement from claims of outright falsehood or perjury".[2]

References

  1. ↑ Bryan A. Garner ed., Black's Law Dictionary 783 (7th ed. 1999), cited in
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 The Free Dictionary
  3. ↑ The Southeastern reporter, Volume 108