A person seeking qualifying domestic-violence protective orders may bring a support person to the court hearing. The support person’s role is to provide moral and emotional assistance, not to act as an attorney.

The Protected Party Selects the Person

The individual requesting protection may choose the support person. The person does not need special training, certification, or professional qualifications.

A trusted friend, relative, advocate, or another supportive individual may serve in this role.

An Unrepresented Party May Receive Closer Support

When the protected party does not have an attorney, the support person may sit with them at the table ordinarily reserved for a party and counsel.

This physical presence can help the person participate in a stressful hearing, but it does not give the support person authority to speak for them.

The Support Person Cannot Give Legal Advice

The support person may offer emotional reassurance but may not function as legal counsel, answer substantive questions for the party, or direct testimony.

The protected party remains responsible for presenting their own position unless represented by an attorney.

The Court May Remove the Support Person

The court may exclude the support person when removal serves the interests of justice or when the person appears to be prompting, influencing, or swaying the party.

The support person must follow courtroom instructions and avoid interfering with testimony or communication between the court and the parties.

A California DVRO attorney can prepare the protected party for the hearing, explain the support person’s permitted role, and present evidence concerning the requested protection. The support person can provide comfort, while counsel handles the legal presentation.