State of Tennessee v. Michael A. Moore

Following a bench trial in general sessions court, the defendant was convicted of DUI. On the same day, he filed notice of appeal to the circuit court. The circuit court judge’s administrative assistant advised the defendant by letter to appear before the court to set a trial date. The defendant failed to appear as scheduled, and the circuit court dismissed the appeal. The defendant now appeals the circuit court’s dismissal. Because the record does not reveal any notice to or participation by appointed counsel at the circuit court level, we reverse the judgment of the circuit court and remand for further proceedings.