In a criminal case, the process begins when police officers suspect a crime has been committed. They initiate an investigation, gather evidence at the scene and may arrest the defendant. Following the arrest, the defendant goes through the booking process, during which the police record their information. Typically, the authorities then file a formal criminal charge, initiating the official legal proceedings.
Throughout this process, it’s critical that the police catalog and store the evidence securely, marking the start of the ‘chain of custody.’
Understanding how it helps your case
The chain of custody is the process of documenting the handling and storage of evidence from collection to court presentation. Any gaps or errors can cast doubt on the evidence’s reliability.
For example, if the police do not handle or store a piece of DNA evidence correctly, it could lead to contamination. Changes in storage conditions, like temperature fluctuations or exposure to other substances, can change the test results. If the prosecution can’t fully prove the chain of custody, the court may not trust or allow the evidence.
This can be a powerful tool for the defendant to challenge the charges against them.
Challenging its validity
In a criminal case, a legal professional starts by asking about the police’s handling of the evidence. They check that the police followed every step correctly, from collecting and transporting to storing and presenting the evidence in court. If they find any discrepancies, they can challenge the validity of the evidence. This could lead to the evidence being deemed untrustworthy, resulting in a not guilty verdict and potentially exonerating the defendant.
Remember, every detail matters in a criminal case, and the chain of custody is no exception. Understanding the importance of the chain of custody and its role in defense is crucial to navigating the legal system.