L3 – Unit 2-2: Field Notes

Field Notes and Report Writing

Basic uses for field notes include providing a basis for the officer’s report, reducing the need to re-contact witnesses or involved parties, and providing greater accuracy regarding time, distance, and sequences of statements and events than an officer’s memory alone.

Why are good Field Notes and Reports are important and what should they contain:

• Notes and Reports are used to accurately document an event or incident so that information will be available in the future
• Make sure that only facts, NOT opinions are documented
• Good notes and reports help to avoid confusion caused by a lapse in time after the incident
• Notes and reports may be used my law enforcement, attorneys and courts

Field Note Video (YouTube)