Evidence is the foundation on which prosecutors build criminal cases. However, evidence is only as valuable as the process used to collect, store and present it in court, which is where the concept of chain of custody comes into play. If you face criminal charges, you must understand this idea, its importance in legal proceedings, and how it can impact your defense.

What Is Chain of Custody?

Chain of custody refers to the documented and unbroken trail of evidence from the moment law enforcement officials collect it until they present it in court. This process ensures evidence remains unaltered, untampered with and properly accounted for throughout the investigation and trial.

To maintain a valid chain of custody, law enforcement and forensic personnel must:

• Properly document when and where they collected the evidence.
• Secure the evidence in a controlled environment to prevent tampering or contamination.
• Maintain detailed records of every person who handles the evidence.
• Transfer the evidence according to strict protocols to preserve its integrity.

Why Chain of Custody Matters in Court Cases

Chain of custody can make or break a criminal case. Gaps, inconsistencies or errors in handling may make evidence unreliable and inadmissible in court. Here’s how it might impact different aspects of your case.

• Ensuring evidence integrity: Incorrect storage or documentation may make evidence subject to contamination or manipulation. Any sign of altered evidence can create doubt about its reliability.
• Preventing tampering or mishandling: A break in the chain of custody could mean that someone intentionally or accidentally tampered with the evidence. Defense attorneys often scrutinize the chain of custody to identify lapses that could weaken the prosecution’s case.
• Challenging the prosecution’s claims: If something breaks the chain of custody, the defense can argue to exclude the evidence from trial. As a result, the prosecution may struggle to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Exonerating the wrongfully accused: Improper evidence handling has led to wrongful convictions in some cases. A defense attorney may successfully prove that the evidence against you is unreliable or invalid based on chain of custody issues.

Why You Need an Experienced Defense Attorney

Chain of custody can be critical in criminal cases, and you must have a skilled defense attorney to represent you in court. The Law Firm of Salvatore Ciulla understands the nuances of forensic evidence and the importance of the legal process.

• Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case: We meticulously examine evidence collection, storage and handling to uncover chain of custody issues.
• File motions to suppress evidence: If there is a break in the chain of custody, we can argue for the exclusion of compromised evidence, potentially weakening the prosecution’s case.
• Hold law enforcement accountable: We ensure law enforcement officials follow the proper protocols to prevent wrongful convictions due to mishandled evidence.
• Advocate for your rights: Every person deserves a fair trial, and we fight to uphold your constitutional rights throughout the legal process.

Protect Your Future

If you face criminal charges, don’t leave your future to chance. Proper evidence handling could mean the difference between conviction and acquittal. Contact the Law Firm of Salvatore Ciulla today to schedule a consultation. Our legal team will work tirelessly to protect your rights and challenge flaws in the case against you.