Best Evidence Rule

Florida Statutes s. 90.952, 90.953 and 90.954 codify what is called the “best evidence rule.” “The best evidence rule requires that if original evidence is available, then no evidence should be received which is merely substitutionary in nature….The best evidence rule is applicable only to exclude evidence where the contents of a writing is at issue.” State v. Eubanks, 609 Do.2d 107, 109 (Fla. 4th DCA 1992); These statutes provide: 90.952 Except as otherwise provided by statute, an original writing, recording, or photograph is required in order to prove the contents of the writing, recording, or photograph. 90.953 A duplicate is admissible to the same extent...