Legal Definitions - accompany

To accompany someone or something means to go along with them, often with a specific purpose such as providing support, supervision, or observation. In legal contexts, the act of accompanying can imply a level of responsibility, a particular relationship between the parties involved, or a duty to be present.

• Example 1: A court order specifies that a non-custodial parent must accompany their child to all school meetings and parent-teacher conferences.

  Explanation: In this scenario, the parent's presence is not merely optional; it is a legal requirement. The act of "accompanying" means the parent must attend these events with the child, implying a duty to supervise, participate in discussions, and support the child's educational needs as mandated by the court.

• Example 2: A company's human resources policy states that an employee has the right to have a colleague or union representative accompany them to any disciplinary hearing.

  Explanation: Here, "accompany" signifies that the colleague or representative attends the hearing alongside the employee. Their presence is intended to provide support, act as a witness, or ensure fair process, demonstrating that accompanying can involve a supportive or oversight role in a formal proceeding.

• Example 3: During a police investigation, an officer is legally required to accompany a search warrant when it is executed at a private residence.

  Explanation: This example illustrates that the officer must be physically present with the search warrant document as it is carried out. The officer's role in "accompanying" the warrant ensures that the legal authority for the search is present and properly executed, linking the physical presence to the lawful implementation of a legal instrument.