Which document must be verified by affidavit when it comes to pleadings?

The correct answer is that any pleading, including amended pleadings, must be verified by affidavit. In civil procedure within New South Wales, the requirement for pleadings to be accompanied by an affidavit serves to ensure that the assertions made within these documents are substantiated and that the party is prepared to affirm the truthfulness of their claims.

Affidavits verify the pleading's facts and can enhance the credibility of the assertions being made in court. This verification process is crucial, as it holds parties accountable for the information they present, and it helps to prevent frivolous claims or defenses that are not grounded in truth.

By requiring all pleadings and any amendments to be verified this way, the court maintains a high standard for the integrity of the legal process and the information being presented. Thus, whether it’s a statement of claim, defense, or reply, each document’s factual basis must be supported through an affidavit to ensure proper judicial proceedings.