Chain of Custody and Why It Is Important in a Criminal Case

What is a Chain of Custody?

A chain of custody is a document or record that shows the chronological history of evidence from the time it was collected to the time it was presented in court. In order to maintain the integrity of the evidence, it is important that each link in the chain be documented and verified. This includes documenting who collected the evidence, who packaged it, who transported it, and who reviewed and approved it.

When you’re dealing with evidence, it’s important to be able to track its history and movement from the time it’s discovered until the time it’s used in a trial. There are a few things you need to do to establish a chain of custody:

-Establish who has custody of the evidence at all times. This means keeping track of who has the evidence, where it’s kept, and who has access to it.

-Document each transfer of custody. Make sure to include the date, time, and reason for the transfer.

-Maintain secure storage conditions. Keep the evidence in a locked room or container, and restrict access to it.

-Keep accurate records. In addition to documenting each transfer of custody, you’ll also want to keep track of any tests or examinations that are conducted on the evidence.

Why is Chain of Custody Important?

The chain of custody is important because it helps to establish the authenticity and integrity of the evidence. If any link in the chain is broken, it could call into question the validity of the evidence. This is why it’s important to take care in maintaining the chain of custody from start to finish. By establishing a chain of custody, you can help to ensure that the evidence has not been tampered with or corrupted in any way.

How Can Having a Criminal Defense Lawyer Be Beneficial?

If you have been charged with a crime, it is important to understand the role that a criminal defense lawyer can play in your case. Criminal defense lawyers are responsible for representing their clients who have been accused of committing a crime. They work to ensure that their client’s constitutional rights are protected and that they receive a fair trial. In some cases, they may also be able to negotiate a plea bargain on their client’s behalf.

Can a Criminal Defense Attorney Increase My Chances of Success?

A criminal defense attorney is the first and most important line of defense against criminal charges brought against an individual. A good attorney can often mean the difference between a conviction and an acquittal.

If you’ve been arrested, the first thing your defense attorney will do is contact the prosecutor and try to get the charges reduced or dropped. If that’s not possible, your defense attorney will start preparing for trial. This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and crafting a defense strategy.

No matter what stage of the criminal justice process you’re in, a good defense attorney can make a difference. So if you’re looking for an advocate and a friend, call our criminal defense law firm today at 307-333-7884 for a free consultation.