Chain of Custody (Coc)

Chain of Custody Definition

Chain of Custody defined is the unbroken trail of accountability that ensures the physical security of samples, data, pictures, and records that may have potential as forensic legal evidence. Be sure to have at least one witness, two if you prefer, attest to the date and time of your sample collection by signing off on the CC form below.

We recommend that you take at least one digital time/date stamp picture while the sample collection is in progress clearly showing the face of the test sample donor and/or submitter. Do not submit evidence pictures related to urine samples which include the genitals in a picture, but submitting a picture depicting the genital proximity as representative of a urine sample collection will suffice.

Chain of Custody Form

The Chain of Custody form requests the name of a witness who will provide their name, date, and time on your test sample seal. You should also provide a date/time stamped picture showing your face as the test sample donor for identity purposes. Submitting a completed Chain of Custody form is a method of establishing a paper trail of potential forensic evidence should you choose to move forward with a civil or criminal suit against a perpetrator.

The identity and signature of each person who handled the evidence and their authority to do so.
How long the evidence was in the possession of each person who handled it?
How the evidence was transferred each time it changed hands.

This form is not mandatory, although highly recommended and does not increase your testing fee but is essential in supporting the origin of your test sample, the choice is yours. The Chain of Custody form helps you generate potential, written, forensic (legal) evidence should you have the need. Keep in mind that you cannot generate a forensic chain of Custody later, the time is now. A completed form should accompany your test sample.

Introduction to the printable Chain of Custody Form. (Click & Download the Form)

How do I support the origin of my test sample should I wish to provide potential forensic evidence submittable to a court of law?
Why should I submit a completed Chain of Custody form?

When should I submit a Chain of Custody Form with my test sample?

Submitting a Chain of Custody form helps you verify the origin of your test sample. You will be asked to name a witness to your test sample collection plus taking a digital picture or two, one to accompany your test sample and one for your records to be taken while the test sample collection is in progress.

The Carlson Company offers a wide variety of forensic lab testing services and Drugs Test Panels. FREE real person client care by email or phone Monday – Thursday, 9 AM – 4 PM mountain time zone. If we miss your call leave a voice mail or send an email. We check our contact form emails and voice messages on a regular basis and promise to get back to you A.S.A.P.

Please send a copy of your sample collection picture or video with your test sample.

A CD/DVD digital recording is also acceptable. Your picture can be worth a thousand words. Your picture identity, taken while your sample collection is in progress, with a time and date stamp digital camera or video, can also be essential forensic evidence if you choose to proceed with a civil or criminal case in a court of law. Any decision to move forward with a legal suit is your decision alone.

Sample collection and submission (MUST READ)

Requirement:

Please submit either a completed Chain of Custody or a Private test sample submission form with your test sample. The Chain of Custody form is court supportable, and the Non-Chain of Custody or Private Submission form is not court supportable, your choice.

Chain of Custody Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What Is The Purpose Of The Chain Of Custody?

Answer – The purpose of the chain of custody is to ensure the integrity, reliability, and authenticity of evidence from the moment it is collected until it is presented in a legal or investigative context. This process involves documenting every transfer and handling of the evidence, including who collected it, who handled it, and how it was stored. By maintaining a clear and unbroken record, the chain of custody helps prevent evidence tampering, loss, or contamination, thereby ensuring that the evidence remains credible and admissible in court or other official proceedings.

Question 2: What Happens If The Chain Of Custody Is Broken?

Answer – If the chain of custody is broken, it can have serious implications for the integrity and admissibility of the evidence. A break in the chain of custody means there is a gap in the documented handling of the evidence, which can raise questions about its authenticity, contamination, tampering, or mishandling. As a result, the evidence may be considered unreliable and could potentially be excluded from legal proceedings or investigations. To maintain the credibility of the evidence, it is crucial to ensure that every transfer, handling, and storage of the evidence is meticulously documented and accounted for.

Question 3: What Does CoC Mean In Court?

Answer – In court, CoC stands for “Chain of Custody.” It refers to the chronological documentation or paper trail that records the custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of physical or electronic evidence. The chain of custody is crucial in legal proceedings because it establishes that the evidence presented is the same as that originally collected, and has not been altered, tampered with, or otherwise compromised. Properly maintaining the chain of custody ensures the evidence’s integrity and admissibility in court.

Question 4: How Long Does It Take To Obtain Chain Of Custody Certification?

Answer – The time it takes to obtain chain of custody certification can vary depending on several factors, including the specific requirements of the certifying body, the complexity of the processes being certified, and the readiness of the organization seeking certification. Generally, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. This period includes preparing and implementing necessary procedures, training staff, conducting internal audits, and undergoing the formal certification audit by the certifying organization. It’s important to plan ahead and allocate sufficient time for each step to ensure a smooth and successful certification process.