New York Consolidated Laws, Family Court Act - FCT § 838. Petitioner and respondent may have friend or relative present

Unless the court shall find it undesirable, the petitioner shall be entitled to a non-witness friend, relative, counselor or social worker present in the court room.  This section does not authorize any such person to take part in the proceedings.  However, at any time during the proceeding, the court may call such person as a witness and take his or her testimony.  Unless the court shall find it undesirable, the respondent shall be entitled to a non-witness friend, relative, counselor or social worker present in the court room in the event such respondent is not represented by legal counsel.  This section does not authorize any such person to take part in the proceedings.  However, at any time during the proceeding, the court may call such person as a witness and take his or her testimony.