Can a lawyer represent me in court if I am unable to attend?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jake Stradlater
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Jake Stradlater

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I was arrested and charged with a misdemeanor. I'm innocent, but that's besides the point. The thing is, I will be in medical school and possibly unable to attend without missing classes and and an expensive flight back home. Is it possible for my lawyer to represent me without me being present? It's my first offense, and a misdemeanor. Thanks in advance.
This is in new jersey by the way.
 
I work in a courtroom, and in California at least, if you're charged with a misdemeanor your attorney can represent you. You would never have to make a personal appearance. They can even do a trial without you being present, although that wouldn't make a good impression on a jury.

If you're charged with a felony, though, you have to personally make every appearance unless the judge takes a personal waiver from you, but you won't have to worry about that since your case is a misdemeanor.
 
You need to contact your lawyer to be sure regardless.

Under most circumstances, if charged in a criminal case, you must appear unless your appearance has been excused in advance by the judge.

If for any reason you can't appear, you need to contact your lawyer enough in advance to allow him/her the time to file a motion with the court requesting your appearance be excused.
 
You need to contact your lawyer to be sure regardless.

Under most circumstances, if charged in a criminal case, you must appear unless your appearance has been excused in advance by the judge.

If for any reason you can't appear, you need to contact your lawyer enough in advance to allow him/her the time to file a motion with the court requesting your appearance be excused.
 
You need to contact your lawyer to be sure regardless.

Under most circumstances, if charged in a criminal case, you must appear unless your appearance has been excused in advance by the judge.

If for any reason you can't appear, you need to contact your lawyer enough in advance to allow him/her the time to file a motion with the court requesting your appearance be excused.
 
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