Which method is not commonly used to authenticate a document as evidence?

• A. Witness with knowledge
• B. Chain of custody
• C. Official seal
• D. Distinctive characteristics

Answer: (B)

Authentication of documents in evidence relies on showing who created the document or that it comes from a trusted source. A witness with knowledge can testify to the document’s origin or signing, establishing that it is what it purports to be. An official seal or notarization provides a recognized mark of authenticity from an authority, indicating the document is genuine. Distinctive characteristics—such as handwriting, signatures, watermarks, or other unique features—can be used to verify authenticity through comparison or expert analysis.

Chain of custody, while essential for proving the document’s integrity and that it has not been tampered with from collection to presentation, does not by itself establish who created the document or its authenticity of origin. It supports admissibility by showing the item is the same one that was collected, but it is not commonly used to authenticate the document itself.