Plea in Absentia – Out of Town / Deployed Clients

Many of my clients do not live here in the Savannah area. Some don’t even want to come back after their arrest. Don’t worry, because I resolve many client’s case without them coming back to court through a plea in absentia.

The plea in absentia is a document that permits a client’s attorney to present a two page affidavit to the court in the client’s absence. This documents sets forth the following:

• the charges against the client
• the rights given up by pleading guilty or no contest
• the terms of the plea agreement
• satisfaction with attorney services

Pleas in absentia are only for misdemeanors or city ordinance violations. If you are charged with a felony, you more than likely will have to come back to court with your lawyer unless something is worked out ahead of time.

The one downside to a plea in absentia is that the court generally requires the entire fine amount at the time the plea is entered into court. Normally, a defendant has the life of probation to pay any a fine. If you can afford it, then a plea in absentia is a viable option for you if you live out of town.