In the legal context, what is secondary evidence?

In the legal context, secondary evidence refers to copies or reproductions of original evidence. This type of evidence is used when the original document is unavailable, and it serves to demonstrate the content of that original evidence. For example, if the original contract is lost or destroyed, a copy of that contract can be submitted as secondary evidence in court.

Understanding the distinction between primary and secondary evidence is crucial in legal proceedings, as primary evidence is the original source of information (like direct eyewitness accounts or original documents), while secondary evidence supports the primary evidence when the original is not accessible. In many legal situations, secondary evidence can still be considered admissible, particularly if clear procedures were followed in creating the copies, such as reliable documentation methods. This distinction is essential in the evaluation of evidence types and their validity within legal contexts.