Who may administer an oath in this context?

• A. The affiant
• B. The notary
• C. An officer authorized to administer oaths
• D. The clerk of court

Answer: (C)

Oaths must be administered by someone who is legally empowered to administer oaths. This ensures the oath is valid and holds up in legal matters. The person swearing the oath—often called the affiant—cannot administer it themselves; they are the one making the oath, not the one giving it. A notary public is a common example of someone who can administer oaths, but the key requirement is the authority granted by law. Other officers, such as clerks of court, and similar officials, also have that authority. So, the term that best fits is an officer authorized to administer oaths, because it covers all individuals who may legally perform this function.