What does spoliation mean in a legal context?

In a legal context, spoliation refers specifically to the loss, destruction, or alteration of evidence in a way that undermines the fairness of legal proceedings. This concept is crucial because the integrity of evidence is foundational for ensuring that justice is served. When evidence is spoiled, whether intentionally or unintentionally, it can hinder the ability of parties involved in a case to effectively argue their positions.

Preserving evidence is essential for the proper functioning of the legal system, as it allows all parties to examine, challenge, and rely upon it. If evidence is lost or altered, it can potentially lead to wrongful conclusions or decisions based on incomplete or misleading information. Spoliation can also carry legal consequences, such as sanctions against the party responsible for the alteration or destruction of evidence, which further emphasizes the importance of maintaining evidentiary integrity in legal contexts.