Why should attempts be avoided to fit tools into questioned marks prior to laboratory examination?

Avoiding attempts to fit tools into questioned marks prior to laboratory examination is crucial because doing so may alter either the questioned mark or the tool itself. When a tool is pressed against a questioned mark, there is a risk that the unique characteristics of both the tool and the mark could be inadvertently changed. This alteration might compromise the integrity of the evidence and could make it difficult to accurately match the tool to the questioned mark later on in the investigation.

Maintaining the original condition of both the questioned mark and the tool is vital for the accuracy and reliability of forensic analysis. Forensic experts rely on these details to determine the source of the mark accurately, and any changes might lead to incorrect conclusions about the evidence. Preserving the integrity of the evidence ensures that it remains admissible in court and that the investigation can be conducted based on valid and uncontaminated results.