Domestic Abuse - What information will my lawyer need?
Domestic Abuse - What information will my lawyer need?
Evidence is a vital part of ensuring you obtain the protection you need and deserve.
Below we have listed some of the common questions that you may be asked when you speak with a legal professional and start getting legal advice.
1. Has there been a recent traumatic event? If so, what were the details?
It is necessary to have as detailed a note as possible of what happened with times, dates and as detailed a description as possible. This will form the basis of a statement that could become crucial to any action that needs to be taken.
2. Were the police involved? If so did the police give you a reference number?
The police can provide a report, but for your solicitor to access this, you will need to sign an authority confirming that you authorise the release of this information to your legal advisor. This can be used as evidence.
3. Did you sustain any injuries? What were they and did you get medical attention? Were photographs taken?
If you consulted with a doctor or went to hospital, the details of your medical treatment can be obtained by your solicitor. You will need to give the names and addresses of the GP or hospital who treated you and provide a signed authority so that your solicitors can obtain this information for you.
4. What has been happening leading up to today?
In some cases the abuse may have been going on for months or even years. Your solicitor will take a detailed note of what has happened that will act as the main evidence for the court. Have there been any communications by text messages or emails? If so these will need to be looked at by your solicitor so that they can take note of these and they can be attached to any statement.
5. Has anybody else witnessed the abuse? Would they be prepared to give evidence for you?
Details of these people, their names and addresses, telephone number and e-mail [if possible] can also be given to your solicitor so that they can write to them on your behalf. Witness statements may also be admissible.
6. Have you suffered any mental distress or emotional trauma for which you're obtaining help such as counselling or therapy?
Again details of this help will need to be given to your solicitor to go into your statement.
7. Do you have children who have also been affected?
If they have, then depending on their age, their school may be able to provide a report on how the abuse is impacting them.
No abuse is acceptable. It may be difficult to remember what has been happening, especially if the abuse has been going on for a while. It is therefore important not to delay if possible and take the first step to get the help you need.
