Chain-of-custody issues are important issues that can affect the admissibility and reliability of evidence presented in court. It is helpful to understand the complexities of chain-of-custody issues and their implications. What are chain-of-custody issues are and their significance in criminal defense cases?
What is Chain-of-Custody?
Chain-of-custody refers to the chronological documentation of the handling, transfer, and storage of physical evidence from the time it is collected at the crime scene to its presentation in court. Maintaining an unbroken chain of custody is important for establishing the authenticity and integrity of evidence and to possibly show it was not tampered with, contaminated, or altered.
Chain-of-Custody Issues
Chain-of-custody issues can involve various things in the evidence-handling process:
Collection: Lack of proper documenting the collection of evidence at the crime scene can raise cause issues about its reliability and admissibility. Issues such as contamination or mishandling during collection can affect the integrity of the evidence.
Transportation: During transportation from the crime scene to the forensic laboratory or evidence storage facility, evidence must typically be securely packaged, and properly documented.
Storage: Proper storage conditions should be used. Failure to maintain adequate storage conditions, such as temperature control or protection from environmental factors, can compromise the reliability of the evidence.
Handling and Documentation: People who come into contact with the evidence should document their actions and maintain a record of the chain of custody. Some things in handling or documentation can raise doubts about its authenticity and reliability.
How it can Affect a Criminal Defense
Chain-of-custody issues can have important implications such as:
Admissibility of Evidence: If the chain of custody is broken or compromised, the evidence in question may be deemed inadmissible in court. This can weaken the prosecution’s case and possibly lead to dismissal of charges or acquittal.
Reasonable Doubt: Chain-of-custody issues can raise reasonable doubt about the reliability of the evidence presented. The defense showing doubt on the integrity of the evidence can undermine the prosecution’s case.
A challenge to the chain of custody can be shown through cross-examination of witnesses, expert testimony, or filing motions to suppress evidence. By showing discrepancies or weaknesses in the chain of custody, the defense can seek the exclusion of the evidence.
Chain-of-custody issues can be important in criminal defense cases. They can impact the admissibility and reliability of evidence presented in court. If you are facing criminal charges in Shasta, Tehama, or Trinity Counties, give us a call at 530-241-2734.
Mark Cibula is a third-generation local attorney in Redding, California, a former Mayor and Chairman of the Shasta County Board of Supervisors. He has over 29 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney and earned numerous awards. He has a B.A. from the University of California at Berkeley, an M.A. from the University of Southern California, and a J.D. from the McGeorge School of Law. His telephone number is 530-241-2734
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