People v. Gargani

Defendant, Raymond B. Gargani, was tried in absentia without the benefit of counsel. A jury found him guilty of driving while his license was revoked (see 625 ILCS 5/6 — 303 (West 2004)), and the trial court sentenced him to a 364-day jail term. Defendant was not represented at any point in the proceedings until the court appointed counsel 31 days after he was sentenced.

Defendant appeals, arguing that he is entitled to a new trial because he was tried in absentia without counsel and without waiving his right to counsel. The State briefly objects to our appellate jurisdiction but ultimately…