Evidence

  1. When would I need evidence?

    After a negative experience, regardless of what actions you want to take or how you plan to deal with the problem, evidence is essential. For example:

    • a broken toilet which the landlord has not fixed
    • being verbally or physically abused
    • not being paid minimum wage
    • being discriminated against
    • any type of accident you have been involved with

  2. Types of Evidence

    Various types of evidence exist and can include:

    • identifying notes
    • pictures and videos
    • witnesses and their statements
    • medical reports
    • police reports
    • estimates (e.g. clothing or furniture repair costs)

  3. Identifying Notes

    Right after the incident, write down all the details you can remember, including:

    • date and time
    • location
    • all details of what happened
    • witnesses names and contact information
    • appearance of the person – height, hair style, weight, markings on their body, etc.

  4. Witnesses

    • Get the name, address, phone number, and email address of anyone who saw the incident.
    • Ask any witnesses to write down what they saw right away so they don’t forget the details (make sure they date and sign their notes)
    • Make a copy of the witnesses’ notes. Ask the witness to keep one copy, and keep one for you.

  5. Medical Records

    • If injured (even a scrape or bruise), have a doctor examine the injuries
    • Tell the doctor what happened (all injuries) and that you need a copy of his or her notes
    • Ask the doctor to photocopy the notes taken during the appointment so they can be used in the case
    • Keep receipts if medical service was paid for
    • If injuries don’t get better or get worse, keep going back to the doctor to document them

  6. Pictures and Videos

    • It is best to use a camera that puts a date on the images
    • It could be a picture or recording of the injury caused to the body or property, or the place where the problem happened
    • Take pictures from a few different angles of the area where the problem happened
    • Take pictures of all the injuries (it is best if the person taking the pictures can come to court / tribunal)
    • Ask any nearby stores or businesses if they have a security camera (do this quickly because some are destroyed within 24 hours). Write a dated, signed letter asking them to save the tapes and explain why. Keep a copy of the letter for your records.