What is a common consequence of failing to maintain the chain of custody?

When the chain of custody is not properly maintained, one significant consequence is that the evidence may be deemed inadmissible in court. The chain of custody refers to the documentation and handling of evidence from the time it is collected until it is presented in court. It is crucial in establishing the integrity and reliability of the evidence. If there are gaps, inconsistencies, or unaccounted periods in the handling of the evidence, the opposing party can challenge its validity. This can raise doubts about whether the evidence has been tampered with, contaminated, or altered in any way. Courts require a clear and uninterrupted chain of custody to ensure that the evidence can be trusted. If the chain is broken, the court may exclude the evidence from consideration, which can adversely affect the outcome of a case.