If I were to hire an attorney regarding a court ruling on an estate dispute that appears to be in my favor, can the attorney represent me without my presence, or do I still have to appear in court as well?
It depends on what the hearing is for. Many probate court appearances are made without the client present, but your presence might be required in some instances.
Your presence would only be required if your testimony was needed, or your consent or agreement to something needed to be put on the record in open court. Otherwise an attorney can appear for you.