People v. Palma

Defendant was stopped by the police for “switching lanes.” The police searched defendant’s car and, finding marijuana, took defendant before a justice of the peace where a warrant was issued for possession of narcotic drugs.

Defendant was arraigned in the circuit court and upon advice of counsel pled guilty to a possession of narcotics charge. Sentence was deferred.

Defendant failed to appear at the time of sentencing and a bench warrant was issued. Later the defendant, accompanied by his father, appeared in circuit court for sentencing. At this time he was represented by new counsel, his…