Evidence and Documentation Tips Before You File
Whatever kind of claim you're considering, the same principle applies: document everything, as early as possible, before memories fade and records disappear.
General documentation checklist
- Photos and videos of the scene, injury, property damage, or defective product — timestamped if possible
- Names and contact information for any witnesses
- Official reports (police report, incident report, workplace complaint)
- All correspondence — emails, texts, letters — related to the situation
- Financial records showing losses: bills, receipts, pay stubs, bank statements
- A dated personal log of what happened and how it has affected you
Type-specific extras
Personal injury: medical records and bills, photos of injuries as they heal, a symptom journal.
Employment: performance reviews, the employee handbook, any complaint you filed internally, termination paperwork.
Contract disputes: the signed agreement, all amendments, proof of payment or non-payment.
Consumer claims: the product itself if possible, packaging, receipts, advertising claims.
What to avoid
Don't alter, delete, or "clean up" any evidence, even if it seems unhelpful — this can seriously damage a case regardless of the underlying facts. When unsure whether something matters, keep it and let an attorney help you sort through it.
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Key takeaway
Good documentation is often the difference between a strong case and a weak one. Start organizing everything as soon as possible, even before you've decided whether to move forward.