In California, a common legal term you may hear is “977 appearance.” This refers to an attorney appearing in court on behalf of a client without the client’s physical presence. This can be especially beneficial for clients who live out of state or who may have difficulty attending court due to work or other obligations. In this blog, we will discuss what a 977 appearance is and how it can benefit clients in California.
What is a 977 Appearance?
In California, a 977 appearance is when an attorney appears in court on behalf of their client without the client being physically present. The term “977” comes from California Penal Code Section 977, which allows attorneys to make appearances on behalf of their clients without the client being present in certain types of criminal cases.
In order to make a 977 appearance, the attorney must file a written request with the court, and the judge must grant the request. Once the request is granted, the attorney can appear in court on behalf of their client for certain types of hearings or proceedings, such as arraignments, pre-trial conferences, or even some sentencing hearings.
Benefits of a 977 Appearance
There are many benefits to making a 977 appearance in California. One of the main benefits is that it allows clients to avoid the inconvenience and expense of having to travel to California for court appearances. This can be especially beneficial for out-of-state clients who may have to travel long distances or take time off work to attend court.
Another benefit of a 977 appearance is that it can save clients time and reduce stress. Court appearances can be stressful and time-consuming, and many clients may have other obligations, such as work or family commitments, that make it difficult to attend court in person. By allowing their attorney to make a 977 appearance on their behalf, clients can focus on their other responsibilities without having to worry about missing court appearances.
Additionally, making a 977 appearance can help clients maintain their privacy. Court appearances can be a matter of public record, which means that anyone can attend and observe the proceedings. By allowing their attorney to appear on their behalf, clients can avoid the public scrutiny that can come with a court appearance.
Limitations of a 977 Appearance
While there are many benefits to making a 977 appearance in California, it is important to note that there are also some limitations. For example, 977 appearances are not always allowed in every type of case. In some cases, such as felony trials or certain types of hearings, the client may be required to be present in court.
Additionally, some judges may be hesitant to grant 977 requests, especially in cases where the client has a history of not appearing in court. It is important to work with an experienced attorney who can make a strong case for why a 977 appearance is necessary and who has a good relationship with the judge handling the case.
Finally, it is important to note that a 977 appearance does not mean that the client can avoid all court-related obligations. Clients may still be required to meet with their attorney, provide documentation, or attend other court-related meetings. It is important to work closely with your attorney to understand your obligations and ensure that you are meeting all necessary requirements.
Conclusion
In California, a 977 appearance can be a valuable tool for clients who are unable to attend court in person. By allowing their attorney to appear on their behalf, clients can save time, money, and reduce stress while maintaining their privacy. However, it is important to work with an experienced attorney who can navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected. If you are facing criminal charges in California and are unable to attend court in person, consider reaching out to an attorney who can assist you with a 977 appearance.
