Revised Penal Code sections 977 and 1043.5 and Government Code section 7165.1, and the added Penal Code section 977.3 allow the following remote appearances by defendants, attorneys and witnesses:

• Infractions: All parties and counsel may appear remotely in infraction (traffic) matters consistent with the requirements of Penal Code section 1428.5.

• Misdemeanors: Defendants may appear remotely in all misdemeanor proceedings except misdemeanor trials. Attorneys may appear remotely if the court finds it appropriate and practicable.

• Felonies: Defendants may appear remotely in all felony proceedings except trials and sentencing, unless the court allows the waiver of defendant’s presence for noncritical portions of felony trials where no testimonial evidence is taken. Remote proceedings are allowed in postconviction relief proceedings and as otherwise provided by law. Attorneys may appear remotely if the court finds it appropriate and practicable.

• Witnesses: Witnesses may appear remotely for misdemeanor and felony proceedings, except for felony trials, with the consent of both parties on the record, and the court. Witnesses may appear remotely as otherwise allowed by statute for the closed-circuit examination of victims of sexual crimes and conditional examinations of witnesses.