The recent senate hearings have highlighted the difficult nature of previously unreported claims of abuse. This is something that comes up quite often in divorce and domestic abuse cases. Many women fail to report abuse when it happens, although they later may need to substantiate those claims for one reason or another. What can women do to protect themselves, even in cases where they are not comfortable immediately reporting domestic abuse? We thought it might be helpful to share some ways of documenting claims of domestic abuse.

Photos

Victims of domestic abuse often learn to conceal the signs of that abuse from the public. Whether it be with clothing or other accessories, it may be difficult for others to see the signs. However, physical signs are indeed often present. If you choose not to report a domestic abuse incident, consider documenting the signs privately through photographs. This may include pictures of bodily injury or damaged personal property.

Diaries

A diary is a personal and private account of your daily life. However, should you so choose, it can also provide evidence of past events. The key is to consistently write in your diary over time.

Call and/or Text History

If the abuse you endured was accompanied by threatening calls, voicemails, and/or text messages, this can be used as evidence as well. Be sure to keep anything on your phone that might relate to abuse. This includes history of repeated phone calls or calls/texts that correspond to dates/times of specific incidents of abuse.

Why Documenting Claims of Domestic Abuse Is Important

Claims of domestic abuse are often a he-said, she-said situation where authorities are faced with the decision of who to believe. Without corroborating evidence, it can be extremely difficult to prove abuse. Even if you are not comfortable reporting abuse at the time that it occurs, you may not feel that way in the future. To protect yourself, it is important to gather evidence of abuse in any way possible. This includes the ways of documenting claims of domestic abuse that we list above.

Depending on the circumstances, you may find yourself in need of a Massachusetts attorney to assist with your case. Please call Martino Law Group to schedule a consultation. We will provide sensitive and compassionate legal services for your legal domestic abuse case.