In forensic science, what is chain of custody?

Chain of custody refers to the process of maintaining and documenting the handling of evidence from the moment it is collected until it reaches the courtroom for presentation. This rigorous documentation ensures that the evidence has not been altered, tampered with, or contaminated during the investigative process. By accurately tracking the evidence through every step of its journey—who collected it, how it was stored, and who subsequently handled it—the integrity of the evidence is preserved. This is critical in forensic science because it reinforces the reliability and credibility of the evidence presented in legal proceedings. Establishing a clear chain of custody can also help prevent challenges concerning the authenticity and admissibility of the evidence during a trial.