What is the basic purpose of the Best Evidence Rule in relation to originals?

• A. It concerns the admissibility of originals when the content is at issue
• B. It requires the best possible evidence is produced
• C. It applies only in criminal cases
• D. It prohibits documentary evidence

Answer: (A)

The basic idea is to prove the content of a writing by using the original document when that content is in dispute. The rule says that, if what you’re trying to prove is the actual terms or content of a writing, the original must be produced and admitted to establish that content, not just a copy. This keeps the evidence accurate and trustworthy, since copies can be altered or misread. You can use a duplicate or other evidence only if the original can’t be obtained for a legitimate reason (lost, destroyed, not reasonably obtainable, or the court approves a substitute). It isn’t limited to criminal cases; it applies in civil cases too. It doesn’t outright prohibit documentary evidence; it governs when the original must be produced and when a substitute is acceptable.