Do I need a lawyer for a restraining order hearing?
You're permitted to represent yourself, and many people do. Whether that's wise depends on what's at stake.
Where counsel matters most: when a criminal case is pending or possible. There is no immunity at an injunction hearing. Testifying about the underlying events creates a sworn record that prosecutors can obtain and use. People have substantially damaged their criminal defense by explaining themselves at an injunction hearing.
Also where it matters: where a final injunction would affect your firearms, your employment, a professional license, a security clearance, or custody of children.
What a lawyer does here: prepares and presents your evidence, cross-examines, keeps your testimony within safe bounds, and where appropriate advises against testifying at all.
The hearing is short, which makes it feel minor. Its consequences aren't.
If there's a criminal case, don't walk into this hearing alone. ---
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