What primary function does a chain of custody serve in criminal investigations?

The primary function of a chain of custody is to document and track the handling of evidence from its collection to its presentation in court. This systematic approach ensures that the evidence is preserved in its original state, which is vital for maintaining its integrity and reliability. Each person who handles the evidence must be accounted for, with clear records of when and how the evidence was accessed and managed. This demonstrates that the evidence has not been altered, tampered with, or contaminated during the investigative process.

Additionally, a well-maintained chain of custody provides a legal safeguard for the admissibility of the evidence in court. If the chain of custody is broken or inadequately recorded, the evidence may be deemed unreliable, potentially jeopardizing a case. Therefore, maintaining a meticulous chain of custody is an essential practice for forensic investigations to uphold the rule of law and ensure fair proceedings.