Documentation & Chain of Custody Flashcards
7 cards from real ETC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Documentation & Chain of Custody flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of photographing evidence before collection?
Answer: To document the original position and condition of evidence in context
Photographing evidence before collection captures its original position and condition within the scene context, which written notes alone cannot fully convey.
An evidence technician receives biological evidence that was improperly stored at room temperature for 48 hours. What should the technician document?
Answer: The storage deviation, when it was discovered, and who was notified
Any deviation from proper storage conditions must be thoroughly documented, including when it was discovered and who was notified, as it may affect the evidence's integrity and admissibility.
Which documentation method provides the most accurate spatial representation of a crime scene for court presentation?
Answer: Sketched diagram with measurements
A sketched diagram with measurements provides a precise, to-scale representation of the crime scene that can be clearly understood in court.
What is the correct procedure when an evidence technician makes an error on a written evidence log?
Answer: Draw a single line through the error, initial it, and write the correct information
Errors on evidence logs must be corrected by drawing a single line through the mistake, initialing it, and writing the correct information to maintain a clear, unaltered audit trail.
When should an evidence technician complete the chain of custody documentation?
Answer: At the time each transfer or action occurs
Chain of custody documentation must be completed at the time each transfer or action occurs to ensure accuracy and prevent gaps in the evidentiary record.
A defense attorney challenges the chain of custody for a DNA sample. What is the most important factor in sustaining its admissibility?
Answer: Complete, unbroken documentation of every person who handled the sample
Admissibility hinges on complete, unbroken documentation showing every individual who handled the DNA sample and under what circumstances.
What information should be recorded when evidence is returned from the crime lab to the evidence room?
Answer: Date, time, lab technician name, condition upon return, and receiving technician's signature
Upon return from the lab, the date, time, lab technician's name, the condition of the evidence, and the receiving technician's signature must all be recorded to maintain an unbroken chain.