CA AB1214

Allows defendants charged with misdemeanors to appear remotely through two-way audiovisual technology for noncritical portions of proceedings when no sworn testimony is taken, if the defendant agrees and the court consents, until January 1, 2026.

Permits felony defendants to participate remotely in initial court appearances, arraignments, bail hearings, resentencing hearings, and motion hearings when no sworn testimony is taken, upon the defendant's request and with court approval, until January 1, 2026.

Prohibits use of remote technology for jury trials or court trials, and requires written waivers in felony cases to explicitly state the defendant knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily waives the right to be present.

Requires the Judicial Council to adopt minimum standards for courtroom technology to support remote participation, including high-speed internet connections, monitors, cameras, speakers, and microphones.

Prohibits courts from retaliating against court reporters who notify judges that technology or audibility issues are interfering with creating accurate records of remote proceedings, and requires superior courts to collect and forward feedback on remote technology use to the Judicial Council quarterly.