Can My Lawyer Go to Miami-Dade Court for Me, or Do I Have to Appear?
By otmseo on November 17, 2025
Whether you’re facing traffic offenses or criminal offenses, you may have a court date coming up. If you have a lawyer, you might be wondering if you need to be physically present before the judge, or if your attorney can represent you instead.
It is essential to understand the Florida law for Miami-Dade court attorney representation requirements. If you need DUI defense services or are facing other criminal charges, contact Jonathan B. Blecher, P.A. to set up a consultation. Read on to learn the answers to, “Do I have to appear in court if I have a lawyer?”
Understanding Court Representation
In general, an attorney serves as an agent for their client in court. In civil cases, a plaintiff attorney will be focused on proving the liability of the other party, while the attorney representing the defendant will try to prove otherwise.
As for criminal cases, the rule of “innocent until proven guilty” applies, and attorneys must advocate for their clients to be treated fairly in these circumstances. In all legal scenarios, lawyers must provide sound legal advice, handle negotiations, draft legal documents, and appear in court. Ultimately, lawyers have a duty to advocate for their clients’ best interests while remaining within the law.
Miami-Dade County Specifics for Court Appearances
Can my lawyer represent me in court? Under Florida law, which will pertain to Miami-Dade County and all counties in the state, you may not always have to make a court appearance. Your attorney can go to the court date without you in the following situations:
Pre-Trial Hearings
For the majority of pre-trial hearings, your private attorney can represent you without your presence being required. In general, if you have a scheduled hearing that you must attend, your lawyer will make sure you are aware that you need to be there.
Criminal Cases Involving Misdemeanor Charges
For all stages of misdemeanor cases, it is often possible for your lawyer in Miami-Dade County to represent you. However, if the court requires you to be present, your attorney will make sure you appear.
When Entering a Plea in Criminal Cases
Whether you have a private attorney or a public defender, most criminal cases will allow legal representatives to enter a not-guilty plea without your presence at the arraignment.
When Must I Appear in Court?
While you might not have to attend every court date, Florida law requires defendants to be present for certain scenarios. These include when you are facing felony charges, particularly for your arraignment, plea, preliminary hearings, and sentencing.
On the date of your trial, you must be in the courtroom, and any time a judge orders you to be there, regardless of the charges, you will be provided notice and are expected to show up. With a private attorney, you will be notified when your presence is mandatory. Failure to appear when you are required to do so can lead to a bench warrant, and you can be arrested for that under Florida law.
Services of Jonathan B. Blecher, P.A.
While the law allows you to have an attorney appointed, a public defender may not serve you as well. Public defenders are bogged down with cases, and sometimes, they are assigned cases where they have no prior knowledge. These factors can make it impossible for them to do the best for you.
Jonathan B. Blecher, P.A. provides DUI defense in this jurisdiction and knows the typical court procedures and proceedings. With solid representation on your behalf, you can feel confident that we will represent you diligently, file on time, and work to minimize the consequences to your future.
Representation for traffic violations and citations is also provided by Jonathan B. Blecher, P.A. In many of these cases, you will not need to be there, but you will always be kept informed of case progress and outcome.
Benefits of Having Representation When You Appear in Court
Legal representation for defendants provides many benefits, including:
Strategic Guidance Through the Legal Process
Your attorney can simplify the legal terms and jargon to help you understand the implications in your case. They will formulate a strong strategy and be prepared for challenges. Attorneys study in their fields for years and have the knowledge needed to conduct thorough investigations and review the evidence.
Protection of Your Legal Rights
Attorneys protect your Constitutional rights and ensure that you are treated fairly under the law. With this representation, a defendant gets proper guidance on when they should speak and when they should remain silent.
Better Chance for Improved Case Outcomes
While no attorney can ever guarantee an outcome in any case, having one on your side greatly improves your chances, especially when you must appear in front of a judge or jury. They can provide a positive influence so that a judge grants a certain motion, and they can challenge the prosecutor on evidence, which may be instrumental in getting charges reduced or even dismissed altogether.
Preparation for Your Court Hearing
Remember, failing to show up for a hearing or trial can make your legal woes even worse. Your lawyer or public defender will tell you when you must be there. They will prepare all the forms and documents, though you should take a few steps for a potentially better outcome.
When showing up to the courthouse, dress in conservative, professional attire, as you would if you were going for a job interview. Additionally, arrive early, as being late can be seen as disrespectful.
Your lawyer will walk you through other steps, such as making sure you stand when you address the court and call the judge “Your Honor” when directly addressing them. You’ll likely be nervous, but your lawyer will lead the way.
Legal Consultation and Initial Steps
When facing legal issues, don’t choose a public defender. Choose representation from Jonathan B. Blecher, P.A. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you every step of the way in your case.
