What does properly documenting the chain of custody ensure?

Properly documenting the chain of custody is crucial in the context of handling evidence for legal proceedings. This documentation ensures the integrity and reliability of the evidence. The 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. Each individual who comes into contact with the evidence is recorded, along with the time and date of their handling and any change in the evidence's location.

When the chain of custody is meticulously maintained, it helps to establish that the evidence has not been tampered with, altered, or contaminated in any way. This assurance strengthens the credibility of the evidence when it is presented in court, ultimately influencing the outcome of the case. In legal contexts, if there are flaws in the chain of custody documentation, there is a risk that the evidence may be deemed inadmissible. This highlights the critical role that proper documentation plays in the legal system, ensuring that justice can be served with reliable and trustworthy evidence.