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Understanding Documentary Material: Definition and Legal Context
Definition & Meaning
Documentary material refers to any item that contains valuable information recorded or encoded in various formats. This includes, but is not limited to:
Written or printed documents
Photographs and films
Audio and video recordings
Electronic or magnetic records
However, items that are illegally imported, associated with criminal activity, or otherwise possessed unlawfully are not considered documentary material.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
Documentary material is commonly referenced in various legal contexts, including:
Civil Law: Used in evidence collection and litigation.
Criminal Law: Relevant in investigations and prosecutions.
Family Law: Important for documenting agreements and custody arrangements.
Users can manage certain legal processes related to documentary materials using templates available from US Legal Forms, which are drafted by experienced attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are a couple of realistic scenarios involving documentary material:
A business uses audio recordings of meetings as documentary material to support its compliance with regulations.
A family court relies on photographs and written agreements as documentary material in custody disputes.
Relevant laws & statutes
The following federal statutes define and govern documentary material:
18 USCS § 1961: Defines documentary material to include books, papers, documents, and records.
44 USCS § 2201: Broadly defines documentary materials to encompass various forms of recorded information.
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Variation
California
Documentary materials may include digital formats more broadly.
New York
Specific regulations on the admissibility of electronic records.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Difference
Evidence
Information presented in court to support a case.
Documentary material is a type of evidence but not all evidence is documentary.
Records
Documents maintained for legal or administrative purposes.
Records may not always contain evidential value like documentary material.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you find yourself needing to use or present documentary material, consider the following steps:
Gather all relevant materials that contain evidential information.
Ensure that the materials are legally obtained and not associated with any criminal activity.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you organize and present your documentary materials effectively.
If your situation is complex, consult a legal professional for tailored advice.
Find the legal form that fits your case
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