documentary evidence
Definition
Documentary evidence refers to any written or recorded material that a party submits to a court to help prove their case. This includes things like contracts, emails, invoices, photographs, bank statements, and text messages. Courts treat these physical documents as some of the most reliable forms of proof because they capture facts at a specific moment in time.
Example
If a customer claims they never agreed to pay you a certain amount, you could submit the signed contract and email exchange as documentary evidence to show exactly what both parties agreed to.
Watch Out
You should save and organize important business communications and documents from day one, because if a dispute ever lands in court, missing paperwork can seriously damage your ability to prove your side of the story.
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This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.