Why It Matters
Evidence can be lost or altered before anyone analyzes it
Phones sync, update, and overwrite. A device left powered on, connected, or unisolated can change between seizure and examination. Preservation failures and custody gaps are frequently decisive.
- STEP 01
Identification & legal hold
Identify the device, custodian, and accounts; issue and document a defensible hold.
- STEP 02
Isolation & preservation
Isolate from networks to prevent remote wipe, sync, and updates that can alter evidence.
- STEP 03
Collection & imaging
Acquire with an appropriate, documented method, recording tool, version, and device state.
- STEP 04
Documentation & handling log
Maintain a complete record of who handled the device, when, and why — from seizure to analysis.
- STEP 05
Verification
Verify integrity (e.g., hashing where applicable) and the reproducibility of the acquisition.
For Both Sides
Establishing — or challenging — custody
We help counsel build a defensible custody record, and we evaluate whether an opposing party’s preservation and handling were sufficient and documented.
- Was the device isolated to prevent remote changes?
- Was preservation timely, or did sync and updates intervene?
- Was the acquisition method documented and appropriate?
- Is there a complete, unbroken handling log?
- Can the acquisition be independently verified and reproduced?
Get Expert Help With Mobile Evidence
Preserving, collecting, or challenging a device?
Act early — preservation failures are hard to undo. We can advise on defensible handling or evaluate the other side’s.
Submitting a request does not create an attorney-client, expert, or consulting relationship. Do not send privileged or confidential materials until a conflict check is complete and an engagement agreement is in place.