b. Categories of Object Evidence

CATEGORIES OF OBJECT EVIDENCE

• UNIQUE OBJECTS– objects that have readily identifiable marks, e.g., a gun with a serial number.
• OBJECTS MADE UNIQUE– objects with no unique characteristics but are made readily identifiable, e.g., a typical kitchen knife with identifying marks placed on it by the witness.
• NON-UNIQUE OBJECTS– Objects with no identifying marks and cannot be marked, e.g. narcotic substances. A proponent offering evidence which falls under the third category must establish a chain of custody. (Riano p. 125 citing 29A Am Jur §§ 945-947)