If my son cannot afford a lawyer and can’t appear himself, can I show up in court since he does not have a public defender as of yet?

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If my son cannot afford a lawyer and can’t appear himself, can I show up in court since he does not have a public defender as of yet?

My son (23) was arrested for possession of a loaded firearm. He has an arraignment oin about a week but he is in a rehab facility and will be there for a while.

Asked on May 6, 2014 under Criminal Law, California

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 9 years ago | Contributor

No, you may not appear for your son--unless you are an attorney. Only a lawyer may appear for another person. You should contact the court, explain the situation, and see whether it might be possible to adjourn or delay the case due to your son's understanble medical (rehab) absence; also contact the public defender's office and see if they can expedite getting him an attorney.


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