Penal Code 41 A matter recorded, stored, processed, retrieved or produced by a computer is a document. Explanation—Whatever is expressed by means of letters, figures or marks as explained by mercantile or other usage, shall be deemed to be expressed by such letters, figures or marks within the meaning of this section, although the same may not be actually expressed. ILLUSTRATION A writes his name on the back of a bill of exchange payable to his order. The meaning of the endorsement, as explained by mercantile usage, is that the bill is to be paid to the holder. The endorsement is a document, and must be construed in the same manner as if the words “pay to the holder”, or words to that effect, has been written over the signature. “Valuable security” 30. The words “valuable security” denote a document which is, or purports to be, a document whereby any legal right is created, extended, transferred, restricted, extinguished, or released, or whereby any person acknowledges that he lies under legal liability, or has not a certain legal right. ILLUSTRATION A writes his name on the back of a bill of exchange. As the effect of this endorsement is to transfer the right to the bill to any person who may become the lawful holder of it, the endorsement is a “valuable security”. “A will” 31. The words “a will” denote any testamentary document. Words referring to acts include illegal omissions 32. In every part of this Code, except where a contrary intention appears from the context, words which refer to acts done extend also to illegal omissions.

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