Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: The documented, unbroken trail showing the seizure, custody, control, transfer, analysis, and disposition of physical evidence. A break in the chain of custody can result in evidence being excluded at trial.
Category: Evidence · Statute: F.S. 90.901 · Source: Florida Legislature
Why Chain of Custody Matters
The prosecution must prove that evidence presented at trial is the same evidence that was collected at the scene. Any gap or irregularity in the chain can result in the evidence being suppressed — potentially weakening the case enough for charges to be dismissed.
Common Chain of Custody Challenges
- Evidence not properly sealed or labeled
- Missing documentation of transfers
- Evidence stored improperly (DNA, blood samples)
- Unauthorized access to evidence storage