3.02.170 Authentication of Writings

A writing, offered in evidence as authentic, is admissible, if sufficient evidence has been introduced to sustain a finding of its authenticity or the judge finds that the writing:

(a) Is at least thirty (30) years old at the time it is so offered, and

(b) Is in such condition as to create no suspicion concerning its authenticity, and

(c) At the time of its discovery was in a place in which such a document, if authentic, would be likely to be found.

In order to prove the terms or contents of a writing or document, the writing or document itself must be produced or its unavailability shown before any other evidence will be received to prove the terms or contents of such writing or document.