Requirement of the Original

An original writing, recording, or photograph is required in order to prove its content unless otherwise provided by law. [Restyled effective July 1, 2016.] Advisory Committee Historical Note Effective July 1, 2016, the Rule was amended as part of the general restyling of the Evidence Rules. Effective June 16, 2016, the “Comment” was retitled “Advisory Committee Note.” Advisory Committee Note The language of Rule 1002 has been amended as part of the general restyling of the Evidence Rules to make them more easily understood and to make style and terminology consistent throughout the rules. These changes are intended to be stylistic only. There is no intent to change any result in any ruling on evidence admissibility. This rule is a statement of the so-called best evidence rule. The best evidence rule only applies to writings, recordings, or photographs, as defined in Rule 1001, when a party seeks to prove their contents. [“Advisory Committee Note” substituted for “Comment,” effective June 16, 2016; amended July 1, 2016, to note restyling.]