Physical evidence is critical for raising conviction rates and avoiding case dismissal due to "insufficient evidence". Domestic Violence - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH

: Record past incidents, existing or expired restraining orders, and the suspect's criminal history. 2. Documentation of Injuries and Evidence

: Write a first-person, past-tense account in chronological order. Include direct quotes from the parties (e.g., "Shut up and leave us alone") to capture the atmosphere and specific threats made.

: List full names, addresses, and relationships (e.g., spouse, co-habitant) for the victim, suspect, and all witnesses, including children.

: Document the exact location, date, and time of the incident.

A thorough report should include specific sections to ensure it stands up to legal scrutiny:

A comprehensive report on a domestic disturbance—whether written by law enforcement, a medical professional, or a victim documenting their case—serves as the primary evidence for legal proceedings and safety planning. Effective reporting focuses on factual, chronological accounts supported by physical evidence and behavioral observations. 1. Essential Components of a Domestic Disturbance Report