What explicit wording is required from a witness when testifying to someone's justice (Ta'deel)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Judiciary
Primary text
It suffices for the witness to state, "I testify that he is just" (Ashhadu annahu 'adl). This is the position held by the majority of scholars, Shurayh, the people of Iraq, Malik, and some Shafi'is. If the witness states only "He is just," it suffices, provided the full testimony of justice is established.
Supporting text
A dissenting view held by the majority of Shafi'is requires the witness to state, "He is just, and he is my guardian/protector" ('Adlun wa waliyyun). The rationale offered for this restriction is to preclude potential enmity or kinship between the two parties, or to ensure the person is just universally and not only in specific matters.