Evidence in Maryland Domestic Violence Court Cases
Survivor-based guidance on documenting abuse for Maryland court processes.
Understanding Evidence Types and Their Uses
Common Types of Evidence
Evidence can take many forms, including digital messages like texts or emails, photos that document injuries or property damage, and logs such as notes or calendars that record events and behaviors over time.
Safe Digital Storage
Keeping evidence safe is important. Digital evidence can be saved on secure devices, encrypted drives, or trusted cloud services. It is best to avoid keeping evidence only on devices that may be accessed by others without permission.
Use of Evidence in Legal Settings
Evidence may be presented in various legal proceedings. It can support requests for protective orders and be relevant in criminal cases or custody hearings. Each type of case has rules about how evidence should be submitted and handled.
Caution About Recording Laws
Before making recordings, be aware that laws about consent and recording vary by state or country. Some places require all parties to agree to recordings, while others allow one-party consent.
Additional support options can be found through resources listed at DV.Support.