Forwarding Memo
Definition
The transmittal document that accompanies a sealed packet to the FSL. Most Indian states use a state-numbered Form carrying the IO's signature, the seal impression, and a tested-for list.
- Document type
- Official evidence transmittal form
- Key components
- IO signature, seal impression, itemized contents list
- Purpose
- Documents evidence chain of custody to the FSL
Common questions
What is a forwarding memo in forensics?+
A forwarding memo is the official transmittal document that accompanies a sealed packet of evidence from a crime scene to the forensic science laboratory (FSL). It records what's inside the packet, who sealed it, and includes the seal impression. Most Indian states use a numbered form for this, like Form 95.
Why is the forwarding memo important?+
It documents the chain of custody. It shows exactly what evidence was sent to the lab, in what condition, and with whose signature. The seal impression proves the packet wasn't tampered with between the scene and the lab.
What goes on a forwarding memo?+
The investigator's signature, a seal impression, and an itemized list of all contents. This creates an unbroken record that courts can verify.
Related terms
- Broken Chain
- Any gap, ambiguity, or contradiction in the custody record that prevents the court from concluding the analysed item is the seized item.
- Chain of Custody
- The documented chronological record of who collected, handled, transferred, and examined a piece of evidence. For digital evidence, chain of custody includes...
- Primary Container
- The packaging that is in direct contact with the evidence item: a bindle, an evidence bag, a rigid box. The primary container...
- Recognition
- The judgement call that a particular item or trace is evidence worth collecting. The hardest stage, because everything downstream depends on what...
- Sealed Packet Protocol
- The convention that every transfer of an evidence packet between custodians is logged, with the seal inspected and the inspection signed off...
- Secondary Container
- The outer envelope that holds the primary container, the case-identifying label and the tamper-evident seal.
- Seizure Memo (Panchnama)
- The on-scene record of items recovered, witnessed by independent panch witnesses. Signed by the IO and the panchas.
- Tamper-Evident Seal
- A physical barrier (tape, sticker, wax) applied to packaging that shows visible damage if the package has been opened after sealing. Courts...
Explained in these topics
- Chain of Custody: What Breaks It, and What Indian Courts Have SaidThe transmittal document accompanying a sealed packet from the scene to the FSL. Includes a seal impression and an itemised contents list.
- Processing Physical Evidence: Discovery, Recognition and ExaminationThe transmittal document that accompanies a sealed packet to the FSL. Most Indian states use a state-numbered Form carrying the IO's signature, the seal impres...