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209A Guideline 5:02: Role of Advocates at Hearings After Notice

Part of the Guidelines of Judicial Practice: Abuse Prevention Proceedings.
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Guideline 5:02

At a hearing after notice, an advocate should be permitted to accompany a party in the courtroom, stand with the party throughout the proceedings, and assist and support the party to the extent that the party wishes it and the court deems it helpful. The court should allow an advocate to speak with the party in order to help the party to provide the court with relevant additional information.

Commentary

The role of an advocate, friend or relative at a hearing after notice is essentially the same as at an ex parte hearing, whether or not the other party is represented by counsel. See Guideline 1:04 Court’s Relationship With Local Advocacy Groups; Guideline 2:08 Role of Advocates in Assisting Parties; and, Guideline 3:09 Role of Advocates at Ex Parte Hearings.

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Last updated: October 20, 2025

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