What aspect of evidence handling does the chain of custody ensure?

The chain of custody is a critical aspect of evidence handling that ensures chronological accuracy. It refers to the documentation and handling process that establishes a clear timeline for how evidence is collected, stored, and transferred from one individual to another. This process is essential in maintaining the integrity of the evidence, as it provides a detailed account of each individual's interaction with the evidence and ensures that it has not been altered, tampered with, or contaminated during its handling.

By maintaining a proper chain of custody, law enforcement and investigators can demonstrate that the evidence presented in court has been consistently tracked and managed from the point of collection to its presentation, reinforcing the reliability of that evidence. This chronological documentation is pivotal in legal proceedings, as it can impact the admissibility and credibility of the evidence in court, supporting the argument that the evidence accurately reflects the facts of the case.