Accepting Plea Deal in Los Angeles from Another State
I do have a lot of cases where people live in different locations, whether in a further part of California than Los Angeles or whether they live in another state, and they have somehow been charged with a criminal case in Los Angeles.
There are ways to work out cases and have the person remain in their home state.
Tahl Waiver Form – Misdemeanor Cases
If you are charged with a criminal case in Los Angeles and live in another state, you might not have to appear in court.
One way to make a plea is through Tahl waiver forms. What they have you do is your attorney will go over the waiver forms with you, and then the waiver forms will be sent to you.
You'll have to initial the boxes to ensure you understand your constitutional rights. Then you'll sign and date it.
Often, there may be a sentencing sheet so you can see exactly what your sentence will be like. You'll sign and date that as well.
Then, when the attorney appears on your behalf — which we do all the time for clients — the attorney can tell the judge they sent you the Tahl waiver form.
Also, you went over the waiver form with you, indicated you read and understood it, and then the judge will accept that representation.
You may plead guilty in a criminal case in Los Angeles from a different state or country, depending on the circumstances.
Wavier of Defendant's Presence – PC 977(b) – Felony Cases
Usually, that is only available in a misdemeanor case in Los Angeles. However, with the Coronavirus, courts are now allowing people on felony cases to take what's called a Penal Code Section 977( b) waiver.
This means that the person signs a document indicating that their attorney has let them know that they have a right to be present, and they're waiving and giving up that right and allowing the attorney to appear for them.
I think we're going to start to see even pleas being done in felony cases without the defendant being there. Often, I wouldn't say I like that because sometimes there's confusion about what must be done.
So, if you take a plea, especially if I am your attorney, we must ensure you understand precisely what you're supposed to do.
That it is spelled out very clearly — so you're in a position where you don't make any mistakes, you don't miss a court date, you don't miss turning in your paperwork.
Contact Hedding Law Firm If Charged with a Crime
We can sometimes help take care of people taking deals from different locations, states, or countries by appearing for them.
Let's say they have to do certain things. We will turn in their paperwork and make the court appearances, and they can remain in their home state or whatever location they're in.
So, if you or a loved one has a case in Los Angeles County but you live in a different jurisdiction and you want somebody to help you work the case out, pick up the phone and ask to speak to Ron Hedding. I've been doing this for 26 years. I'm sure I can help you.
Hedding Law Firm is a criminal defense law firm located in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles County, at 16000 Ventura Blvd #1208 Encino, CA 91436. Call (213) 542-0979 for a free case evaluation.
