Legal Question in Business Law in Maryland

Litigation Requirements

If a business scans signed client contracts and other documents into a computer software filing system (ie, PaperPorts)for easy access, can these documents be used for litigation purposes or is the original document needed?

What is the legal ruling regarding reproduced documentation?


Asked on 5/07/03, 11:06 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: Litigation Requirements

Legible copies of business documents are admissible as long as they can be properly authenticated as true copies of the original.

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Answered on 5/07/03, 12:25 pm
G. Joseph Holthaus III Law Offices of G. Joseph Holthaus

Re: Litigation Requirements

Generally a court requires the best original. If your business uses electronic signature then the method you propose is more than acceptable. However, if you are using paper signatures that are then scanned into a computer, you are introducing a problem. A paper copy of a contract should exist in orginal signature especially for contracts that provide for repossession of chattel or for collection at notice. Without knowing the needs of your business I am not able to provide you with any further suggestions. If you would like further information about Maryland's evidence rules, contact me by e-mail at my address shown on my profile or contact me at (410) 799-9002.

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Answered on 5/27/03, 10:22 pm


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