In Re Sykes

Banke, Judge.

This is an appeal from an order declaring the appellant attorney in wilful contempt of court due to his unauthorized absence from court following the call of a criminal case in which he represented the defendant. The appellant complains that he was given neither notice of the specific charge against him nor an opportunity to prepare a defense.

The criminal case was first called at 9:00 a.m., at which time the appellant was present and announced that he and his client were ready for trial. The court thereupon told the appellant, "I’ll let you know where we stand,” and took up other…