Rule 901 addresses what?

• A. Best Evidence Rule
• B. Proof of Chain of Custody
• C. Impeachment Standards
• D. Authentication and Identification of Evidentiary Items

Answer: (D)

Rule 901 is about authentication and identification of evidentiary items. It requires that evidence offered at trial be proven to be what it is claimed to be, so the proponent must produce evidence showing the item’s genuineness. This can be done through testimony of a knowledgeable witness, or through non-testimonial methods such as distinctive characteristics, the item’s appearance, or evidence about the process or system used to produce the item (including how a record was created or maintained). The rule covers various forms of evidence, including handwriting, voice, photographs, and digital records, by linking the item to its claimed identity.

The Best Evidence Rule concerns producing original writings or recordings; the topic of chain of custody relates to maintaining control of evidence; and impeachment standards deal with challenging a witness’s credibility. Rule 901 specifically targets authentication and identification, making it the correct focus.