What is a key requirement for physical evidence to be admitted in a trial?

For physical evidence to be admitted in a trial, it is essential that it is demonstrated to be what it purports to be. This means that the evidence must be shown to reliably represent the object, substance, or material it claims to depict, establishing a clear and established link to the case at hand. This process often involves a chain of custody and various tests or analyses to affirm the evidence's authenticity and relevance.

When evidence can be validated, it contributes significantly to the credibility of the case being presented in court. For instance, if a piece of evidence is claimed to be a weapon used in a crime, it must be shown not only that the weapon exists but also that it is indeed the weapon involved in the incident being litigated. This requirement ensures that the evidence holds factual support for the claims of the prosecution or defense, allowing the court to make informed decisions based on reliable information.