electronic copies

Definition

Electronic copies are digital versions of documents stored on a computer, phone, server, or cloud service rather than printed on paper. Courts and contracts treat these digital files the same as paper documents, meaning they can serve as legal evidence or satisfy record-keeping requirements.

Example

If a customer disputes a sale, you could submit your emailed invoice or a PDF receipt saved on your computer as an electronic copy to prove the transaction happened.

Watch Out

Some contracts or government agencies require you to keep electronic copies in a specific format or for a minimum number of years, so always check the fine print before deleting old files.

See which terms appear in your contract?

This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.