Requesting adjourments and new court dates at the magistrates

Hi everyone,

My problem is I couldn't make the court date set out by the magistrates due to work commitments. I requested an adjournment but the request wasn't granted and they went ahead and heard the case in my absence. Do I have a right to be present at the hearing of my case. I want to get across the mitigating circumstances to my conviction in person.

Be very grateful if anyone could help.

Thanks

Steven.

Requesting adjourments and new court dates at the magistrates