Chain of Custody
The reduction, elimination, or suspension of a legal proceeding, charge, or financial obligation.
What is Chain of Custody?
Chain of custody is the documented process tracking the collection, handling, transfer, and storage of evidence to maintain its integrity for legal proceedings. Each person who handles the evidence is recorded with date, time, and actions taken.
Why It Matters?
It ensures evidence is admissible in court and free from tampering or contamination.
Example
Police collect a weapon from a crime scene and log every transfer, from evidence locker to forensic lab, preserving the chain of custody for trial.
Related Terms
Mediation
Litigation