What does "chain of custody" refer to?

"Chain of custody" refers to the process of documenting evidence handling. This concept is crucial in the field of criminal justice because it ensures that any evidence collected during an investigation is properly tracked from the moment it is gathered until it is presented in court.

Maintaining a clear chain of custody includes recording who collected the evidence, how it was stored, who had access to it, and any transfers it may undergo, including transportation and storage conditions. This meticulous documentation helps to establish the integrity and authenticity of the evidence, thereby supporting its admissibility in court proceedings.

The other options primarily focus on different aspects of investigations or procedures that are not directly related to the preservation and documentation of evidence. Understanding the chain of custody helps ensure that evidence can be traced back to its origin, minimizing the potential for contamination or tampering, which could ultimately impact the outcome of a case.