Property and inheritance · For citizens
Only a photocopy? Is it proof?
In short
Courts want the document itself (Article 75, Qanun-e-Shahadat). A copy is allowed only in set cases (Article 76), often after notice (Article 77). In a Sialkot land case the Lahore High Court refused an uncertified photocopy because no one tried to get the original.
By the FAI Legal editorial desk · 14 November 2026 · 12 slides · 2 min read
Usually not, on its own.
Qanun-e-Shahadat, Article 75.
“Documents must be proved by primary evidence except in the cases hereinafter mentioned.”
Qanun-e-Shahadat Order 1984 · Article 75, Proof of documents by primary evidence
Original or copy?
Articles 73 and 74.
- PrimaryThe document itself, produced for the court to inspect.
- SecondaryCertified copies, machine copies made from the original, copies compared with it.
When a copy is allowed.
Article 76: the main doors.
- The other side has itAnd does not produce it after notice.
- Lost or destroyedNot through your own fault.
- A public documentThen a certified copy, nothing else.
The file: Sialkot.
Lahore High Court, Civil Revision 1122 of 2011, 3 Feb 2022.
- The land6 kanals 18 marlas in a village of Sialkot.
- The claimBuilt on an old Tehsildar's order.
- The evidenceAn uncertified photocopy of that order.
The ruling: not admissible.
The copy could not be relied on.
- No effortTo summon the official record for the original.
- No proofThat the original was lost.
- ResultThe case went back to the appeal court.
Object at once.
Lahore High Court, W.P. 60974 of 2021, 1 Jun 2022.
- The objectionA party objected to documents in a gas bill suit.
- Trial courtSaid it would decide at the end.
- High CourtDecide it when first raised, unless it needs more evidence.
Quick quiz. What first?
Guess first, then swipe for the answer.
- A. File the photocopy
- B. Give notice to produce the original
- C. Make a fresh copy
Answer: B. Notice first.
Article 77.
- The noticeAsk the other side to produce the original.
- If they do notYou can ask to lead secondary evidence (Article 76(a)).
- No notice neededIf, for example, they admit the loss, or took it by fraud or force.
Your papers, in 4 rules.
The page to keep.
- Keep originalsCourts want the document itself.
- Certified copiesFor public documents, get these.
- Lost it?Prove the loss first: a report, dates, witnesses.
- Ask the courtBefore using a copy as evidence.
Only a copy left?
Ask FAI for the articles and the cases.
- I lost my original agreement. Can I use a photocopy in court?
- How do I apply to lead secondary evidence?
Example questions
Sources
- Qanun-e-Shahadat Order 1984 · Article 75
Proof of documents by primary evidence
Educational legal information, not legal advice. Every case turns on its own facts. Speak to a qualified lawyer about your situation. Review status: Pending advocate review. How we check.
