Home > Research Legal Advice > Domestic Violence > California restraining order-domestic violence and voice messages
Asked about 1 year ago - Los Angeles, CA
FlagIs there an objection that can be used if someone is seeking to play a voice message on a cell phone to help bolster their case in a family law domestic violence restraining order setting?
Without knowing what the message says, what it is being offered for, and who is proffering it, there is no simple answer to your inquiry. Generally speaking, however, out-of-court statements typically trigger hearsay objections, but there are multiple exceptions. Also, a foundation for evidence must be established, to wit authenticity and relevance.
Notwithstanding, at domestic violence restraining order hearings the judicial officer will almost always admit any evidence that they are interested in, given the fact that there is no jury. This is especially true if the parties are pro per.
If you believe that a recording will make or break the DVRO hearing, you should consult with a family law or criminal defense attorney and discuss specifics.
Depends what the speaker is saying and what the voice message is being offered for.
If the speaker is the respondent (i.e. defendant or person to be restrained), then it's probably admissible. most of the time the message is offered to show harassment - which means it's not hearsay. If it is hearsay, it might fall within one of the exceptions, like party admission or declaration against interest. When they go to play the message, assert the objection anyway. Worst thing the judge can do is overrule it.
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