legal
Evidence in Minnesota Domestic Violence Cases
A documentation guide for survivors navigating Minnesota’s legal systems.
Minnesotaevidence
Evidence
Understanding Evidence in Domestic Violence Cases
Types of Evidence
Evidence can include a variety of materials that may support your case. Common types include:
- Photographs showing injuries or property damage
- Text messages, emails, or social media posts
- Voicemails or recorded phone calls
- Medical or police reports
- Witness statements
Safety in Storage
Keeping your evidence safe is important. Consider storing copies in a secure location such as a trusted friend's home, a secure online account, or a locked safe. Avoid keeping all evidence in one place where it could be found or destroyed.
Use of Evidence in Court
Evidence may be used in various legal contexts, including:
- Orders for Protection (OFP): Evidence can help demonstrate the need for legal protection.
- Criminal Cases: Evidence might support charges related to domestic violence.
- Custody Proceedings: Evidence may inform decisions about child custody and visitation, focusing on safety and best interests.
Laws about recording conversations or videos vary by location. Some places require all parties to consent to being recorded. Be aware of local laws before making recordings to avoid legal issues.
Additional support options can be found through resources listed at DV.Support.