Can a lawyer appear for me in court for a simple possesion charge if I am unable to appear?
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Can a lawyer appear for me in court for a simple possesion charge if I am unable to appear?
I live in one stae however the charge is in another.
Asked on June 4, 2012 under Criminal Law, Virginia
Answers:
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
If the appearance is just for a general announcement or preliminary hearing, then the attorney can appear for you if that is the court's practice. Some courts let the attorney's make an appearance, however, some courts require the personal appearance of the defendant at every setting. You just need to talk to the attorney to see what the local practice is. If the hearing that you are attending is a plea hearing or a trial, then you will probably have to appear in person. The court is required to admonish you in person to make sure you understand the waiver of your rights before it can accept a plea bargain.
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