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Evidence and Documentation in Louisiana Domestic Violence Cases

How survivors can collect and use evidence in Louisiana domestic violence-related legal matters.

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DV Laws

Evidence in Louisiana Domestic Violence Cases

Types of Helpful Evidence

In domestic violence cases in Louisiana, various types of evidence can be useful. These may include:

Texts, emails, or messages sent through social media platforms
Photos that document injuries or property damage
Recordings of incidents, though these require caution (see below)
Medical records from visits related to injuries or health concerns
Police reports documenting past calls or incidents involving the parties

Keeping an Incident Log

Maintaining a detailed incident log can add important context to other evidence. This log may note dates, times, locations, and descriptions of events. It is important to store this information securely to protect privacy and safety.

How Evidence May Be Used

Evidence collected can play a role in different parts of the legal process, including:

Protective order hearings, to help show patterns of behavior
Criminal cases, where the evidence may be introduced in court
Family court matters, such as custody or visitation decisions

Recording conversations without consent may have legal consequences in Louisiana. It is recommended to seek advice from a Louisiana attorney before making any recordings.

Working With Legal Professionals

Survivors are encouraged to work with legal aid organizations or attorneys experienced in domestic violence cases. These professionals can provide guidance on how to present evidence effectively and safely within the legal system.