If a victim/accuser is unavailable on the court date (in the hospital) what happens?

Question: If a victim/accuser is unavailable on the court date (in the hospital) what happens?
Answer: Depends on the circumstances of the case, but it is likely that the prosecutor will ask the court for a continuance of the hearing since a victim is unavailable with good reason, and likely will be available in the near future. Depending on the situation of the victim, a prosecutor may try to get the judge to approve a deposition or get statements from the victim in the hospital, and potentially by video (although I have never personally been involved in a situation like that). You should check with your attorney though, the prosecutor may have “speedy trial” issues if time was not waived.
Sincerely,
Phil Hache
DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney
www.philhachelaw.com
Handling DUI and Criminal matters throughout Courts in Southern California including Van Nuys, San Fernando, Burbank, Glendale, Pasadena, Metro, Bellflower, Alhambra, Malibu, Compton, Inglewood and other Courts.