What does "chain of custody" refer to in a legal context?

"Chain of custody" refers specifically to the documentation of evidence handling. This concept is critical in the legal field, particularly in criminal investigations and trials, as it ensures the integrity and reliability of evidence gathered by law enforcement. Maintaining a proper chain of custody involves creating detailed records of who collected the evidence, how it was collected, where it has been stored, and who has had access to it at all times. This meticulous documentation is crucial because it helps to establish that the evidence presented in court has not been altered, tampered with, or contaminated, which can influence the outcome of a case. Without a proper chain of custody, evidence may be deemed inadmissible, impacting the prosecution's ability to prove its case.