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In Washington State, proving the contents of public records in court does not always require the original document. Washington ER 1005 admissibility rules allow certified copies of public records to be used as evidence if they meet specific legal standards.

At Blanford Law, we help individuals and attorneys understand how to admit public records properly under Washington’s Rules of Evidence.

Read the official text of Washington ER 1005 here.

What Washington ER 1005 Allows in Court

Washington ER 1005 admissibility provides that copies of public records can be admitted as evidence if:

  • The record is certified as correct by a public officer authorized to maintain the record.
  • Alternatively, the custodian provides a certified copy under seal or a certification process permitted by law.

These procedures ensure that public documents used in court are reliable, accurate, and properly authenticated without needing the original record.

Requirements for Certified Copies

To use a certified copy of a public record under Washington ER 1005, the copy must:

  • Clearly state that it is a true and correct copy.
  • Be signed and/or sealed by the public agency responsible for maintaining the record.
  • Follow any statutory requirements for public record certification.

If certification is missing or defective, the court may refuse to admit the copy as evidence, making proper documentation critical.

In cases involving property records, court judgments, government agency findings, or vital statistics (such as birth or marriage certificates), proving authenticity without the original document saves time and resources.

Using Washington ER 1005 admissibility rules allows attorneys to avoid delays while still maintaining strong evidentiary standards. This rule protects both efficiency and fairness in Washington’s legal system.

Blanford Law Helps You Navigate Public Record Evidence Rules

At Blanford Law, we help clients correctly gather, certify, and present public record evidence under Washington ER 1005. Whether you are preparing for civil litigation, criminal defense, or administrative hearings, we ensure that your documentary evidence meets court standards.

📧 Email: ken@blanfordlaw.com
🌐 Website: www.blanfordlaw.com
📞 Phone: 253-720-9304

Blanford Law — Helping You Present Strong, Admissible Evidence in Washington Courts.

Additional ResourcesLearn more about Washington evidence rules, legal procedures, and your rights in court with these related articles from Blanford Law:Understanding Washington ER 1004: Admissibility of Other Evidence When Original Documents Are UnavailableExplore how Washington ER 1004 allows courts to accept other forms of evidence when an original document is lost, destroyed, or otherwise unobtainable.Understanding Washington ER 1006: Using Summaries to Prove Voluminous RecordsLearn how Washington ER 1006 permits parties to use summaries when presenting large volumes of documents that would otherwise overwhelm the court.Understanding Washington ER 1007: Testimony or Written Admissions in Place of OriginalsDiscover how Washington ER 1007 allows testimony or written admissions to serve as proof of a document’s contents without needing the original.Washington State Rules of Evidence: A Comprehensive GuideMaster Washington’s evidence rules with this comprehensive guide covering key principles for presenting documents, testimony, and exhibits in court.Washington State Law Requires That Officers Record Bail with the Clerk’s Office (RCW 10.19.060)Learn how RCW 10.19.060 ensures proper recording of bail with court clerks and why this procedure matters for defendants and the bail process.Why Will My Attorney Not Give Me My Discovery? How Can I Get a Copy of the Discovery on My Case?Understand your rights to access discovery materials in your criminal or civil case, and what to do if you encounter challenges.Traffic Infractions and Your Rights Under Washington LawFacing a traffic ticket in Washington? Learn about your rights, potential defenses, and how an attorney can help protect your record.Washington Law Allows Bail Bonds to Be Filed in Open Court (RCW 10.19.065)Explore RCW 10.19.065 and how filing a bail bond in open court can speed up the release process for defendants in Washington.Dealing with Insurance Companies: Tips for Personal Injury VictimsIf you’re a personal injury victim, learn how to protect yourself when negotiating with insurance companies and why having legal counsel is crucial.