Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Hello,

If a lawyer is, say, licensed to practice law in Florida, where I come from, but I have committed a crime in California and will go to court in California - can I appoint that lawyer to be my lawyer and argue my case in court ?

If I can't, would that lawyer hire a lawyer or would he refer me ?

Thanks


Asked on 10/05/09, 5:28 am

4 Answers from Attorneys
Joe Dane Law Office of Joe Dane

An attorney must either be licensed to practice in California to represent you or seek permission from the court here to appear on a one-time basis. Your Florida attorney may know an attorney in California to recommend to you, or you can find one on your own.

Ordinarily, the other attorney would not hire the new attorney for you - that decision and contractual relationship is up to you.

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Answered on 10/05/09, 9:12 am
Joe Dane Law Office of Joe Dane

Sorry - forgot to add:

Depending on what charges you face in California, your attorney (a California one) may be able to make all court appearances for you. For misdemeanors (except for domestic violence allegations), an attorney can appear pursuant to Penal Code section 977 on behalf of their client. For a felony, you must be present unless specifically excused by the court.

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Answered on 10/05/09, 9:15 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Only a lawyer licensed in CA can practice here. Either you or your FL attorney can locate an attorney by searching one out, but the FL would not 'hire' one, only recommend one. You get to pay for such ounsel, not your FL attorney. If serious about getting counsel, and if this case is in SoCal courts, feel free to contact me.

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Answered on 10/05/09, 3:29 pm
OCEAN BEACH ASSOCIATES OCEAN BEACH ASSOCIATES

Just get a lawyer in the county the charges are pending. Contact me directly.

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Answered on 10/05/09, 7:18 pm


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