Court Companions are law students from high ranking NY law schools who were chosen based on qualifications and academic results and have received training in helping self-represented litigants in the family courts on NY.

 

They are specially trained and supervised law students who provide guidance, general information, written materials, and one-on-one assistance to eligible unrepresented litigants. In addition, Court Companions provide moral support to litigants, help them access and complete court forms, assist them with keeping paperwork in order, in accessing interpreters and other services, explain what to expect and what the roles of each person is in the courtroom. Court Companions are also permitted to accompany unrepresented litigants into the courtroom as note-takers and moral support. 

 

While these Court Companions cannot address the court on their own, they are able to respond to factual questions asked by the judge. Court Compnions do not give legal advice or get involved in negotiations or settlement conferences. Generally, court compnions also do not give out legal information.