Start here

I need to organise my evidence.

Good evidence is relevant, dated and easy to verify. More material is not automatically better material.

  1. Orient yourself
  2. Take action
  3. Choose the next step
  1. Start a chronology.

    Use one line per event: date, event, source and why it matters. Keep opinion out of the event column.

  2. Preserve originals.

    Keep full emails, messages, letters and files. Do not crop away context or overwrite the original file.

  3. Group by issue.

    Use simple folders such as orders, court filings, children, school, medical, housing and finances.

  4. Choose what proves the point.

    For each allegation or request, identify the smallest number of documents that directly support your position.

  5. Create an index.

    Give each document a clear title and date. Add page numbers only when the bundle is stable.

Keep in mind

  • Private family proceedings have rules about sharing documents. Do not publish case material.
  • Avoid commentary in filenames. Use neutral labels.
  • Keep a complete archive even if the court bundle is deliberately small.

Keep moving

What to do next

Prepare for a hearingUse the organisation checklistFind practical court support