Maine Evidence Guide – What Survivors Can Document
Evidence categories often used in Maine domestic violence cases.
Maine Evidence Guide
Injury Documentation
Carefully record all visible injuries as soon as possible. Note the date, time, and a detailed description including size, color, location, and any pain or functional impact. Use a dedicated injury journal or secure digital notes to maintain accuracy over time.
Photos and Videos
Take clear, well-lit photographs or videos of injuries, damaged property, or any relevant scenes. Capture multiple angles and use a ruler or coin for scale when possible. Date-stamp media automatically via your device settings to preserve authenticity.
Messages
Save and back up any pertinent digital communications such as texts, emails, or social media messages. Preserve entire conversations rather than just individual messages to maintain context and credibility.
Police Documentation
Obtain and keep copies of all police reports, incident numbers, and correspondence related to your case. Document the names and badge numbers of responding officers and any statements made during interactions.
Safe Evidence Storage
Store all physical and digital evidence securely in a safe place accessible only to you or trusted individuals. Use password-protected devices or encrypted cloud storage for digital files. Maintain backups to prevent loss or damage over time.
For additional support and resources related to domestic violence evidence collection and safety, please visit DV Support.