What is typically the first step in establishing a chain of custody?

The first step in establishing a chain of custody is seizing the evidence. This step is crucial because it marks the initial physical control over the evidence that is to be collected for an investigation or legal proceeding. Properly seizing the evidence ensures that it is collected in a manner that maintains its integrity and prevents contamination or tampering.

When evidence is seized, it is essential to follow established protocols to document how, when, and by whom the evidence was obtained. This includes noting any relevant circumstances surrounding the seizure, which helps in establishing a clear chain of custody as the evidence progresses through various stages, such as transport, analysis, and presentation in court.

The subsequent steps, such as the transportation of evidence, documentation of witness statements, and analysis, all depend on the evidence being properly seized first. If the initial step is not conducted correctly, it can compromise the entire chain of custody and affect the admissibility of the evidence in a legal context.