Proof of documents by primary evidence

Primary evidence is generally required to prove a document. That means the original document itself should be produced in court when it is available. Copies or secondary evidence can be used only if one of the specific exceptions listed later applies.

Ravi sues his neighbour for damage and relies on a photocopy of a written agreement. The court will normally require Ravi to produce the original agreement as primary evidence. If Ravi cannot produce the original, secondary evidence may be admitted only if one of the stated exceptions applies.