Chain of Custody
/ˈtʃeɪn əv ˈkʌstədi/
Definitions
- (n.) The documented and unbroken transfer of evidence or property from one person to another to ensure integrity for legal proceedings.
The prosecution presented the chain of custody to prove the evidence was not tampered with.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Precise documentation at each transfer point is critical to prevent challenges to evidence admissibility.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.