Evidence in Michigan Domestic Violence Cases
A practical evidence and documentation guide for Michigan survivors.
Understanding Evidence for Protection and Legal Matters
Types of Useful Evidence
Evidence can support requests for protection orders or other legal actions. Common useful evidence types include:
- Photographs of injuries, property damage, or threats
- Text messages, emails, or social media posts showing threats or abuse
- Voice messages or recorded calls, where allowed by law
- Witness statements
- Medical or police reports
Safe Storage of Evidence
Keeping evidence safe and private is important. Consider the following:
- Store digital evidence on password-protected devices or cloud accounts
- Make backup copies and keep them separate from original devices
- Keep physical evidence in a secure, discreet place
- Avoid sharing evidence with others unless necessary for support or legal processes
Use of Evidence in Legal Settings
Evidence may be used in different types of legal hearings:
- Protection from Abuse (PPO) hearings: Evidence can support the need for a restraining order or similar protections.
- Criminal cases: Evidence may be reviewed by prosecutors or courts to establish facts.
- Family law matters: Evidence can influence custody, visitation, or divorce decisions.
Legal processes vary by location and case. Evidence handling and admissibility rules differ, so professional advice may be helpful.
Recording Law Considerations
Recording conversations, phone calls, or video varies by jurisdiction. Some places require all parties to consent, while others require only one party's consent.
Unlawful recording can lead to legal issues. Learn your local laws about recordings before creating or sharing them.
Additional support options can be found through resources listed at DV.Support.