In relation to a forensic investigation, what does the term 'chain of custody' refer to?

The term 'chain of custody' refers specifically to the documentation of evidence handling throughout the forensic investigation process. This concept is critical in ensuring that evidence remains admissible in court by providing a clear and traceable record of who collected, handled, and transferred the evidence from the crime scene to its presentation in court. Documenting each individual who comes into contact with the evidence, along with times, dates, and conditions of storage, helps establish accountability and verifies that the evidence has not been tampered with or altered in any way.

While securing evidence, physically protecting it, and preserving its quality are all important aspects of forensic investigations, they are part of broader procedures that support the integrity of the chain of custody. The documentation itself is the key element that substantiates the reliability of the evidence, making it vital to the investigation’s outcome and the legal process.