Hi, I was charged with possession of stole property under 5000, my first offence. My court date is coming up and when I talked to my lawyer he told me that I did not need to go to court and he would represent me. He hasn't even received the discharge yet. But I am wondering if it would look better to the judge if I showed up.

Thanks

I would say you should go. I can't see him telling you not to go.

Hello gehn:

Either listen to your lawyer, or fire him and hire one you WILL listen to.

excon

[QUOTE=gehun]hi, I was charged with possession of stole property under 5000, my first offence. My court date is coming up and when I talked to my lawyer he told me that I did not need to go to court and he would represent me. He hasn't even received the discharge yet. But I am wondering if it would look better to the judge if I showed up.



If you are paying the Attorney, follow his advice - if he wanted you there (or needed you there) he would tell you. I'm sure he has his reasons.

If you did not have an attorney then you should go. The fact you do have an attorney means that you do not have to attend this hearing. If he says you don't have to be there - then believe him. This is probably the first court hearing where you are entering your plea. Did you sign anything at his office when you were there? You probably did and don't remember it stating that you pled not guilty. You will have to show up at the next court hearing.