What Is Chain of Custody?
Chain of Custody is a documented record showing how physical or digital evidence moved from collection through storage, review, and presentation. The record identifies each person who handled the evidence, the transfer or access, and the condition of the item. In medical malpractice claims, this process helps establish that evidence remained authentic and unchanged.
Quick Facts About Chain of Custody
Category
Evidence documentation
Used for
Authenticating medical malpractice evidence
Common confusion
Evidence handling versus evidence content
Also called
Evidence chain, Chain of evidence
Often discussed with
Medical Malpractice Claims
Key Takeaways About Chain of Custody
- A handling record links evidence to each person who possessed it.
- Clear transfer details help authenticate records, devices, photographs, or samples.
- Chain of custody is not the same as medical record accuracy.
How Chain of Custody Works
Chain of Custody begins when a person collects or receives evidence connected to a claim. The record identifies the item, its source, its condition, and each later transfer or access. Digital evidence may include access logs, while physical evidence may require storage records and sealed packaging.
Related glossary terms: Medical Records, Expert Witness, Affidavit of Merit.
Medical records, device data, photographs, and retained specimens can follow separate custody records. Each entry should connect the evidence to the person who handled it and explain where the evidence went next. A medical record may describe treatment, while an expert witness may review the record and explain its significance. Gaps can create questions about authenticity, alteration, or completeness.
From the Atlanta Auto Law team
When we review medical malpractice evidence, we trace who collected, stored, transferred, or examined each item. We compare custody records with medical records, device information, and witness accounts. That review helps us identify questions about authenticity before evidence is presented.
Chain of Custody in Practice: A Real-World Example
A hospital retains a device connected to a patient’s treatment, and the device later becomes evidence in a medical malpractice claim. The custody record identifies the person who secured it, each transfer, and the condition recorded at each stage.
Related Services
Related Terms
Medical Records
Medical Records are written, electronic, or recorded details about a patient’s care, condition, testing, treatment, and…
Expert Witness
An Expert Witness is a qualified professional who explains specialized knowledge to help evaluate disputed facts…
Affidavit of Merit
Affidavit of Merit is a sworn statement from a qualified medical professional that explains why a…
Surgical Error
A surgical error is a preventable mistake or failure during a surgical procedure that causes harm…
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