Section 16 Certified copy may be used in place of original in service of summonses and writs.C1

It shall not be necessary that any messenger or sheriff officer serving a summons, petition, appeal, or note of suspension or interdict shall have the original document in his hands at the time of such service, provided that a copy certified as correct by the agent in the cause shall at the time be in the possession of such a messenger or officer, and shall be exhibited to the party on whom the service is made, if required.