Evidence in Prince Edward Island Domestic Violence Cases
How PEI survivors can safely organize documentation for legal matters.
Using Evidence to Support Your Case
Examples of Evidence
Evidence can include many types of items and records. Common examples are written communications like texts and emails, photographs, videos, audio recordings, witness statements, medical reports, and police records. Documentation of incidents or abuse over time can be helpful for legal or protective proceedings.
Safe Storage and Backups
It is important to keep evidence secure and accessible. Digital copies should be backed up in multiple locations, such as on a secure cloud service and an external drive stored separately. Physical evidence should be kept in a safe place where it cannot be altered or lost. Maintaining privacy and control of evidence helps protect your confidentiality.
Using Evidence in Different Legal Settings
- Emergency Protective Orders (EPOs): Evidence may be used to request immediate protection, showing recent incidents or threats.
- Family Court: Evidence can support custody, visitation, or divorce matters related to safety and well-being.
- Criminal Cases: Law enforcement uses evidence to investigate and prosecute offenses, with certain standards for admissibility.
Additional support options can be found through resources listed at DV.Support.