Authentication or identification of evidence is required as a condition precedent to its admissibility. The requirements of this section are satisfied by evidence sufficient to support a finding that the matter in question is what its proponent claims.
This is the foundational rule for admitting any non-testimonial evidence like documents, photos, or physical objects. It simply means that before an item can be admitted, the party offering it must provide some proof that the item is what they claim it is. The standard is low; the party only needs to provide enough evidence for a reasonable juror to believe it's authentic. The following rule, § 90.902, lists items that are considered "self-authenticating" and do not need this foundational proof.
