Self-authenticated documents include which of the following?

• A. Official publications
• B. Handwritten letters
• C. Verbal statements
• D. Photographs

Answer: (A)

Self-authenticated means a document can be admitted without outside proof of its authenticity. Official publications are in this category, because they come from the government and carry inherent reliability. They are considered authentic on their face, so no extra witness or evidence is needed to prove they’re genuine.

Handwritten letters aren’t self-authenticating; you’d typically need someone to testify about who wrote it or its source. Verbal statements aren’t documents at all, so authentication doesn’t apply. Photographs aren’t generally self-authenticating either; they usually require some authentication showing their origin and accuracy, unless another rule applies.