What defines documentary evidence in a legal context?

Documentary evidence is defined as anything written or printed that is offered to prove or disprove facts in a legal proceeding. This includes documents such as contracts, emails, letters, reports, and any written records that can serve as proof of specific elements relevant to the case. The primary function of documentary evidence is to provide a tangible basis for claims made in court, allowing parties to substantiate their arguments with credible documentation.

This definition encompasses a broad range of materials, emphasizing the importance of written documentation in legal contexts. In contrast, the other options refer to different types of evidence; physical objects pertain to tangible items rather than documents, witness testimonies involve verbal accounts rather than written proof, and spontaneous statements made during a trial relate to oral declarations rather than documented forms. Hence, the focus on written or printed materials is crucial in understanding what constitutes documentary evidence in a legal framework.