How does the "Chain of Custody" impact evidence?

The "Chain of Custody" plays a crucial role in the handling of evidence by documenting each individual who has handled, transferred, or analyzed that evidence. This detailed record establishes a clear and chronological path of the evidence from the crime scene to the courtroom. The documentation ensures that the integrity of the evidence is maintained throughout the entire legal process. If evidence is properly handled and documented through the chain of custody, it can be deemed reliable and credible in court, supporting the prosecution or defense's case.

Maintaining the integrity of evidence is essential to avoid challenges regarding its authenticity or potential tampering. A clear, well-maintained chain of custody mitigates the risk of contamination, alteration, or misplacement, thus reinforcing the validity of the evidence when presented in legal proceedings. Without this proper documentation, evidence can become questionable, potentially impacting the outcome of cases significantly.