What is essential for an affidavit that contains interlineations or alterations to be used in court?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity and authenticity of the affidavit. When an affidavit contains interlineations or alterations, those changes need to be properly acknowledged to ensure that the document remains trustworthy and valid in a legal context.

The requirement for the alterations to be initialed by the witness serves as a way to confirm that the witness has reviewed the changes and agrees with them before the affidavit is sworn. This process reduces the potential for disputes regarding the content of the affidavit and demonstrates that the witness is affirming their statements as amended. It also helps to ensure that any changes made do not introduce ambiguity or confusion about what has been affirmed by the witness.

This practice underscores the need for transparency in legal documents and protects against claims of tampering or misrepresentation, thereby preserving the document's admissibility in court.