original instrument
Definition
An original instrument is the actual physical document that both parties signed when they first made their agreement, as opposed to a photocopy or digital scan. Courts and legal proceedings often require the original because it carries more legal weight and is harder to tamper with than a copy.
Example
If you signed a lease agreement with your landlord, the paper document with both of your real signatures on it is the original instrument, and your landlord keeping a scanned PDF on their computer is just a copy.
Watch Out
Always store your original signed contracts somewhere safe, because if a dispute ends up in court, the other party may challenge a photocopy and demand you produce the original.
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.