I live in Michigan, I was arrested in California while on vacation for falsification of information (using a fake ID) and I have an upcoming court date in San Diego. I am unable to fly to CA again for the court date, can I hire an attorney to go to court on my behalf so I do not have to attend?
Yes, you can hire an attorney to appear and defend you. IF it is charged as a misdemeanor, then the attorney can appear in court without you, and handle the entire case. If it is charged as a felony, you must personally appear at every court appearance. If serious about hiring counsel, feel free to contact me.
Mr. Nelson is correct. An attorney can appear on your behalf, if you are charged with a misdemeanor. If you are charged with a felony, however, you will also have to be physically present. (And I would keep the lawyer, also.)