Title: Chain of Custody - Definition, Examples, Cases, Processes
Headings: Chain of Custody
Chain of Custody
Definition of Chain of Custody
Noun
What is Chain of Custody?
Procedure to Establish Chain of Custody
Chain of Digital Evidence
Chain of Drug Test Evidence
What Happens if Someone Breaks the Chain of Custody?
Motion to Suppress Evidence
Chain of Custody Example Sale of Marijuana
Related Legal Terms and Issues

Content: It also guarantees that the results belong to the individual that provided the sample. What Happens if Someone Breaks the Chain of Custody? In criminal cases, the defendant may petition the court to exclude evidence that the prosecution obtained. This can happen if someone breaks the chain of custody for any reason. If the judge agrees, the prosecution cannot introduce that particular piece of evidence at trial. If the judge suppresses the prosecutor’s main evidence, it can result in dismissal of the case. A number of factors can break the chain of custody including: Investigators waiting too long to collect evidence
Improper storage of evidence
Mislabeled evidence
Alteration of digital evidence
Unauthorized person accesses evidence
Motion to Suppress Evidence
Generally, the discovery process is where a motion to suppress evidence may happen if someone breaks the chain of custody. This process takes place before the trial and involves the prosecution and defense exchanging evidence. Discovery allows both parties to adequately prepare for trial.