Pennsylvania law allows copies of destroyed records to be used as evidence, provided they are certified and produced according to legal standards. It also mandates maintaining duplicate copies of permanent records for protection against damage or loss and requires special care for valuable original records, including creating certified copies and transferring originals for permanent preservation. These provisions aim to ensure the integrity, availability, and preservation of important records.
Yes, certified copies of destroyed records are admissible as evidence and have the same legal effect as the original record.
Duplicate copies of permanent records must be maintained at approved locations to safeguard against damage or loss.
A certified permanent copy must be made, and the original should be transferred for permanent preservation with approval from the Administrative Office.
The Administrative Office approves the locations, and related staff must also obtain approval from the County Records Committee for records they maintain.