The rule specifies that secondary evidence, such as a copy or facsimile, will be not admissible if an original document exists and can be obtained.
[1] The rule has its roots in 18th-century British law,[2] at a time when copies would be rewritten by hand and hence more vulnerable to inaccuracies.
[citation needed] The best evidence rule has its origins in the 18th century case Omychund v Barker (1780) 1 Atk, 21, 49; 26 ER 15, 33.
"[2][3] According to Blackstone's Criminal Practice, the best evidence rule in England and Wales, as used in earlier centuries, "is now all but defunct.
[8] Section 51 provides: "The principles and rules of the common law that relate to the means of proving the contents of documents are abolished."