That rule states that defendants can skip arraignments when the offense "is punishable by fine or by imprisonment for not more than one year or both" and the court allows the proceedings to continue in the defendant's absence.

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Haynesworth is facing a misdemeanor sexual assault charge. (In case you've forgotten the background of the case, please go here.) If convicted, he'd face a maximum 180-day jail sentence and a fine of up to $1,000.

So where is Haynesworth, if he's not sitting in a D.C. courtroom? Don't ask us. Or Bolden.

"He's not in Washington," Bolden said, when asked where his client was Tuesday.

"He's got every right to waive his appearance under the law," he continued. "It wasn't a decision. It was his right, and he exercised his right. Nothing wrong with that."