Which description best explains Rule 1006's allowance for summaries to prove content?

Which description best explains Rule 1006's allowance for summaries to prove content?

• A. The proponent may use a summary, chart, or calculation to prove the content of voluminous writings that cannot be conveniently examined in court.
• B. A chart may be used only if the originals are in court.
• C. A summary is not allowed; only the originals are admissible.
• D. The court may not accept charts or calculations.

Answer: (A)

Rule 1006 lets you prove the content of voluminous writings by using a summary, chart, or calculation when the originals are too bulky to examine in court. This approach saves time and space while still ensuring the full content is accounted for. The key is that the summary must accurately reflect the originals, and the originals (or duplicates) must be available for inspection or copying by the other side, with the court able to require production if needed. This is why a chart or calculation can be admitted to prove the contents of large documents without bringing every page into the courtroom. The other descriptions don’t fit because they impose unnecessary restrictions or ban the use of summaries or charts.

Rule 1006 lets you prove the content of voluminous writings by using a summary, chart, or calculation when the originals are too bulky to examine in court. This approach saves time and space while still ensuring the full content is accounted for. The key is that the summary must accurately reflect the originals, and the originals (or duplicates) must be available for inspection or copying by the other side, with the court able to require production if needed. This is why a chart or calculation can be admitted to prove the contents of large documents without bringing every page into the courtroom.

The other descriptions don’t fit because they impose unnecessary restrictions or ban the use of summaries or charts.