FRE · Rule 1003
This rule addresses the admissibility of duplicates in legal proceedings.
Source: FRE Rule 1003
A duplicate is admissible to the same extent as an original unless (1) a genuine question is raised as to the authenticity of the original, or (2) in the circumstances it would be unfair to admit the duplicate in place of the original.
Rule 1003 allows for duplicates of documents to be used as evidence in court, similar to original documents. However, if there is a legitimate concern about the authenticity of the original document, or if it would be unfair to admit the duplicate instead of the original, then the duplicate may not be admitted.
The purpose of this rule is to streamline the admission of documents into evidence and reduce the burden of needing to present original documents in every case.
Duplicates can be admitted as if they were originals unless there are authenticity concerns or fairness issues.
This case confirmed that duplicates could serve as evidence but emphasized the need for authenticity of the original.
Be aware that questions regarding the admissibility of duplicates often appear on exams, focusing on issues of authenticity and fairness.