Investigative Reporting & Documentation Flashcards
7 cards from real CSI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Investigative Reporting & Documentation flashcards as text
Which of the following best describes the 'opinion' section of a formal investigative report?
Answer: The investigator's professional conclusions drawn from documented facts
The opinion section contains professional conclusions that are logically derived from and supported by the documented facts in the report.
An investigator is asked to document electronic surveillance footage. The best practice is to:
Answer: Document the full footage metadata, storage location, and chain of custody
Complete metadata documentation and chain of custody for electronic evidence ensures its authenticity and admissibility.
Which practice is considered unethical when writing an investigative report?
Answer: Omitting exculpatory evidence that contradicts the client's position
Omitting exculpatory evidence is a serious ethical violation that can constitute fraud and undermine the integrity of the investigation.
In a workers' compensation investigation report, surveillance logs should include:
Answer: Date, time, location, investigator ID, and objective description of observed activities
Surveillance logs must objectively document all observed activities with precise identifying information to be credible and legally defensible.
When a witness recants a previously documented statement, the investigator should:
Answer: Document the recantation separately while preserving the original statement
Both the original statement and the recantation must be preserved, as inconsistencies are themselves evidentiary and must be documented.
The term 'narrative' in an investigative report refers to:
Answer: The chronological, factual account of the investigative activities and findings
The narrative is the factual, chronological account of what the investigator did, observed, and found during the investigation.
Which standard best governs how long investigative reports and case files should be retained?
Answer: Applicable state laws, professional association guidelines, and contractual requirements
Retention periods are governed by state statutes, licensing board requirements, and any contractual obligations established with the client.