Domestic violence is an ugly monster that eats away at the very core of victims’ lives, leaving behind scars both physical and emotional. In extreme cases, domestic violence can result in lifetime physical disabilities, chronic pain and profound psychological trauma, forever altering the course of a victim’s life and leaving them with enduring challenges and scars that may never fully heal.
Victims in such extreme cases may need to prove their injuries were the result of domestic violence to seek justice through legal means, such as filing for restraining orders or seeking compensation through civil lawsuits. How can victims prove devastating injury in domestic violence cases?
Photographs and visual evidence
Photographs of the victim’s injuries taken shortly after the incident can provide powerful evidence of the extent of the harm inflicted. Also, visual evidence such as security camera footage and eyewitness recordings can provide additional support to the victim’s claims of injury.
Medical records
Records of injury detailing the extent of injury, treatment received, and prognosis from medical professionals can serve as crucial evidence in proving devastating injuries in domestic violence cases. These records can include documentation of physical examinations, diagnostic tests, surgeries, medications prescribed and any ongoing therapy or rehabilitation needed as a result of the injuries sustained.
Documentation of prior abuse
If the perpetrator has a history of domestic violence against the victim or others, documentation of prior abuse incidents can be used to establish a pattern of behavior and support the victim’s claims of injury. This can include police reports, restraining orders, medical records, witness statements or any other relevant documentation.
Additional corroborating evidence can help strengthen a victim’s case. Legal counsel can be invaluable when dealing with domestic violence cases, helping determine the best approach to gathering and presenting evidence and advocating for the rights of a victim as their situation evolves.