The Absentia County form is a California legal document that lets defendants enter a plea in the Superior Court of Sonoma County without being physically present in the courtroom. It applies to misdemeanor vehicle code violations, most commonly charges under California Vehicle Code section 23152. Completing this form transfers the responsibility of entering a plea to the defendant's attorney.
Who Should Use This Form?
This form is for defendants in Sonoma County, California who face misdemeanor charges under specific vehicle code sections and cannot appear at their scheduled court hearing. The defendant must have an attorney willing to represent them and certify the completed form before submission. Defendants facing similar charges in other states may need a different document, such as the Georgia Plea in Absentia form.
How to Fill Out the Absentia County Form
Follow these steps to complete the form correctly:
- Enter your full legal name and the court case number in the spaces provided at the top of the form.
- Identify the California Vehicle Code section listed in your charge and write it in the designated field.
- Check each waiver box to confirm you are waiving your right to personally enter a plea and to be present at sentencing.
- Initial each probation condition to show you have read and accepted the court's terms.
- Sign and date the form, then have your attorney complete the attorney certification section.
- Submit the signed form to the Sonoma County court clerk before your scheduled hearing date.
What Rights Do You Waive by Submitting This Form?
When you submit the Absentia County form, you give up the right to appear in person, personally enter your plea, be present at sentencing, and address the court directly. You also agree to the probation terms outlined in the document. Reviewing these waivers carefully with your attorney before signing is strongly recommended.
For other legal forms, see the Placer County Superior Court forms, the traffic guilty plea form, or browse probation application forms for additional resources.