What Is Chain of Custody?

Chain of custody refers to the process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence from the time it is collected until it is presented in court. This process ensures that the evidence remains intact, unaltered, and admissible in legal proceedings.

Key Components of Chain of Custody:

1. Collection:
   • Evidence must be collected following strict protocols to prevent contamination. This includes proper identification of the evidence and the circumstances surrounding its collection.
2. Documentation:
   • Every individual who handles the evidence must document their actions. This includes recording the date, time, location, and conditions under which the evidence was collected and transferred.
3. Storage:
   • Evidence must be stored securely to prevent tampering or degradation. This often involves sealed containers and controlled access to the storage area.
4. Transfer:
   • Any transfer of evidence from one person or location to another must be documented. This includes sign-out and sign-in procedures to track who has handled the evidence.
5. Presentation in Court:
   • When evidence is presented in court, the chain of custody must be established to show that it has been handled properly and remains in its original condition. Any breaks in the chain can lead to questions about the evidence's integrity.

Summary: Chain of custody is crucial in legal proceedings to ensure that evidence is collected, documented, stored, and transferred properly, maintaining its integrity and admissibility in court.