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Can a screen recording of deleted WhatsApp threats be used as evidence in court?

Dear sir,

I hope you're doing well and receiving Ramadan blessings from Allah. A customer has been threatening me on WhatsApp.

I screen-recorded the messages he deleted, but I couldn’t capture them in time. The deleted messages contained threats of beating.

My question is, can I use the screen recording as evidence in court? He only deleted the threatening messages.

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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18 Mar 2025, 05:13

Hello,

A primary concern for courts is the authenticity of electronic evidence. It must be proven that the messages are genuine and haven't been tampered with.

Deleted messages pose a particular challenge because they raise questions about potential manipulation. Even if the screen recording is admitted, the court will consider the context and nature of the messages.

Threats of violence are generally taken very seriously.

If you need further clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.

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Jassim Ali Al Haddad Lawyers and Legal Consultants
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18 Mar 2025, 05:50

Dear,

You can submit the threatening messages you have with you to the police station, and they will assign a specialized expert to examine the deleted messages from your phone to verify the veracity of your statements.

If anything else is required, don’t hesitate to contact us via email or call our offices in Dubai or Sharjah.

Jasim Al Haddad Law Firm

Legal Counsel and Consultations

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Fawzia Mohammad Lawyers & Legal Consultancy
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18 Mar 2025, 06:00

Hello,

I hope you're doing well. To assist you better, we would need to review some evidence of the situation. It's possible that you might be able to use the screen recording in court, but we'd need to look at the details to provide the best guidance.

Would you like to schedule a meeting with us to discuss this further and assist you more effectively?

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Future Vision Advocates Legal Consultancy
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18 Mar 2025, 06:25

Dear Inquirer,

Thank you for reaching out. In the UAE, WhatsApp messages, including deleted ones that have been recorded, may be used as evidence in court, but their admissibility depends on various legal factors.

To assess the strength of your case and the best course of action, we recommend a legal consultation. You may book an appointment through our website or engage our office for representation.

Best regards,

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KHE Legal Consultancy
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18 Mar 2025, 06:54

Dear questioner,

You can file a complaint at the police station regarding the threatening messages, where you can show the recordings.

Kindly share your WhatsApp number to discuss this in detail.

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Hend Humaid Alnuaimi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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18 Mar 2025, 07:29

Yes, you can potentially use the screen recording in court as evidence of threats made against you, but its admissibility will depend on various legal factors including relevance and authenticity.

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Abdulhamid Yousuf Albulooshi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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18 Mar 2025, 10:13

Greetings,

In reference to your message, you should file a threat report based on the messages you have kept, even if they have been deleted.

Best regards,

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Dar Al Haqooq Legal Consultancy
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18 Mar 2025, 14:14

Dear Sir,

Ramadan Kareem. Thank you for reaching out regarding this sensitive matter. I appreciate your trust in seeking guidance on the use of electronic evidence in UAE courts.

Regarding your inquiry about using screen-recorded WhatsApp messages as evidence:

1. Admissibility of Electronic Evidence:

Under UAE Federal Law No. 1 of 2006 on Electronic Transactions and Commerce, electronic communications, including WhatsApp messages, are generally admissible as evidence in UAE courts.

2. Deleted Messages:

The fact that you have screen recordings of messages that were subsequently deleted does not necessarily negate their evidentiary value. Courts may consider such recordings, especially if they provide context to ongoing communications.

3. Presentation of Evidence:

To present this evidence effectively:

- Ensure the screen recordings are clear and legible.

- Have the messages professionally translated into Arabic.

- Prepare a detailed affidavit explaining the context and how the recordings were obtained.

4. Authentication:

Be prepared for the possibility that the court may require authentication of the electronic evidence. Preserving the original recordings and any associated metadata is crucial.

5. Legal Consultation:

Given the nuances of presenting electronic evidence and the serious nature of threats, it is strongly advised to consult with a qualified UAE legal professional. They can provide tailored advice on how to properly submit this evidence and integrate it into your overall legal strategy.

Please note that while this information provides a general overview, each case is unique. A legal expert can offer guidance specific to your situation and ensure compliance with all relevant UAE laws and court procedures.

If you require further assistance or clarification, please don't hesitate to ask.

Yours sincerely,

ABDUL WAHIED

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Engy Nabeel Advocates & Legal Consultants
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19 Mar 2025, 09:16

If you have a copy of these threats, you can sue them.

If you have any further questions, please contact us at [---------].

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