Photos

Photographs provide a powerful visual record of injuries, property damage, or other relevant details. Use a smartphone or camera to capture clear, well-lit images from multiple angles. Include timestamps when possible to establish chronology.

• Focus on physical injuries such as bruises, cuts, or swelling.
• Document damaged belongings or broken fixtures.
• Capture environmental context, like room layouts or locations.

Communications

Written, audio, and digital communications may serve as critical evidence. This includes text messages, emails, social media posts, and voicemail recordings.

Maintain original files and avoid editing or deleting content. Backup important communications in secure formats and locations.

Medical Records

Medical documentation of injuries is vital for establishing the severity and consequences of abuse. Obtain copies of all relevant hospital, clinic, or doctor’s visit records.

Request detailed notes including descriptions of injuries, treatment provided, and dates of appointments. Ensure confidentiality by storing records securely.

Police Reports

Police incident reports offer formal documentation of law enforcement response and observations following a domestic violence event.

Request copies of reports directly from the responding law enforcement agency. Review for accuracy and include report numbers in your records.

Safe Documentation Practices

Protecting your evidence is as important as collecting it. Follow these safety guidelines:

• Store evidence in secure, password-protected digital files when possible.
• Keep physical copies in a safe location outside the reach of others involved.
• Limit sharing evidence only to trusted advocates, attorneys, or officials.
• Consider using cloud services that offer encrypted backups.
• Regularly back up your files in multiple secure locations.