LA Superior Courts Expand Remote Appearance Options for Criminal Cases
This week, the Los Angeles Superior Courts announced that effective Monday, August 10, that audio and video appearances using Webex will be available in all 250 criminal courtrooms. This revolutionary move ensures that the courts are promoting safety through an alternative to in-person appearances. Attorneys must make a request to the judicial officer to appear remotely via Webex. The measure, part of the Here For You | Safe For You campaign, is one of several to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus, including mandatory use of a facemask and social distancing requirements. Ridley Defense can now appear on your behalf, AND keep you out of court in most criminal cases in Los Angeles County.
Prior to the announcement, there had been substantial confusion about how the county was handling remote appearances. While offenders who were in custody had previously had the option to appear remotely for arraignments, those out-of-custody had not had the same opportunity. The countywide expansion of this program is setting a precedent that other counties may follow. Los Angeles County has now set the bar for a safe and efficient route for criminal appearances.
Webex is a secure video conferencing system used by some of the largest companies in the country. Through Webex, audio and video remote appearances enable the courts to stay open while helping to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
At Ridley Defense, we regularly appear out of the LA Courts. Our attorneys are encouraged by the efforts the Los Angeles Superior Courts are taking to limit the number of people in the courts while still providing access to justice. For clients arrested in Los Angeles, we can now request that your personal appearance be waived and appear utilizing the Webex system.
For over 22 years, Attorney Doug Ridley and his team have been practicing law. He currently teaches criminal justice at Pepperdine University and serves alongside Los Angeles Superior Court presiding judges on the San Fernando Valley Bar Association Bench Bar Committee. His role as a former prosecutor has earned him the respect of his colleagues across the aisle, judges, public defenders, and private counsel.
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Los Angeles County, please feel free to call our offices at 805.208.1866. We know that these are confusing times, particularly if you have a looming court appearance. It is always in your best interest to contact our office before your arraignment or first appearance. With the expansion of remote appearances, we may be able to appear on your behalf without your personal presence. Contact our office with any questions regarding this announcement and stay safe during these trying times.
