Certified Fraud Examiner Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

The Best-Evidence Rule requires that parties in a legal proceeding provide the original document or an accurate copy of the document when its contents are at issue. This rule underscores the importance of original documents in establishing the authenticity and reliability of evidence. Presenting a copy is permissible if the original is not available, but the goal is to ensure that the evidence presented is as close to the original as possible to preserve its integrity.

The rule is designed to prevent misunderstandings or misrepresentations that could arise if parties were allowed to speak about a document or submit secondary evidence without presenting the original or a clear copy. This requirement helps maintain the accuracy of the legal process and supports the reliability of the evidence submitted. In scenarios where the document is crucial for proving a point in the case, adhering to the Best-Evidence Rule is essential for the proper administration of justice.