Records Management & Evidence Handling Flashcards
6 cards from real CCM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Records Management & Evidence Handling flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of a court records retention schedule?
Answer: To specify how long different types of court records must be kept before they can be lawfully destroyed
Retention schedules ensure courts keep records as long as legally required for appeals, legal proceedings, and historical purposes, then dispose of them lawfully.
What is 'chain of custody' in the context of physical evidence in court?
Answer: The documented chronological record of who had possession of evidence, ensuring its integrity is not compromised
An unbroken chain of custody proves evidence was not tampered with between collection and presentation in court, preserving its admissibility.
What is the legal doctrine of 'public records' that applies to most court records?
Answer: Court records are presumptively open to public inspection unless a specific exception applies such as sealed records or juvenile cases
The common law and constitutional right of public access presumes court records are open, with exceptions requiring court orders based on compelling interests.
What does 'vital records' designation mean in a court records management program?
Answer: Records essential to the court's continued operation and legal obligations that must be specially protected and backed up
Vital records designations ensure the most critical documents — such as court orders and judgment rolls — receive special protection and are prioritized for disaster recovery.
What is the purpose of a court evidence room or property room?
Answer: To securely maintain physical evidence and property related to court cases until disposition is ordered
The evidence room maintains physical evidence under controlled conditions with strict chain-of-custody documentation until the court orders its release, destruction, or return.
What is 'expungement' in court records management?
Answer: A legal process by which certain criminal records are sealed or destroyed, removing them from public access
Expungement allows qualifying individuals to have arrest or conviction records sealed or destroyed, limiting their impact on future employment and housing.