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How to obtain evidence of domestic violence

On Behalf of | Mar 31, 2023 | DIVORCE - Domestic Violence |

Many domestic violence victims find it difficult to get out of their relationships safely. When dealing with an abuser, the divorce process becomes more daunting because you do not know how your ex will react. To protect yourself, you may want to file charges.

What you do not want, however, is for the court to look at the allegations as your word against his or her word. You need evidence to back it up, but how can you collect evidence in a domestic violence situation?

Focus on all aspects of domestic violence

Domestic violence is more than physical abuse. While you should keep photographic evidence of bruises and other physical injuries, you should also keep track of all threats and harassment. Save all of your text messages with your former spouse, particularly those of a threatening or abusive nature. If your ex continuously calls, let it go to voice mail and save all messages.

Be careful where you store your evidence

It can be dangerous for domestic violence victims to store evidence where their former partner can find it. Consider keeping the evidence at someone else’s house or uploading digital files to a secret hard drive or the cloud where your former spouse cannot access it. Do not allow your spouse to see the evidence and do not talk about the evidence.

Reach out to family and friends about your situation. Support systems are important for all divorcing couples, but when dealing with domestic abuse, your support system can help you remain strong and may also protect you.

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