2006 New York Code - Arraignment By Mail.

 
  § 2002. Arraignment by mail.
    Notwithstanding  any  provision  of the criminal procedure law, in any
  criminal proceeding in which the district court  has  jurisdiction,  and
  where  the  defendant is not charged with a felony, the court may in its
  discretion permit a defendant to file an appearance by mail  instead  of
  appearing  in  person  or  by  counsel. In any such case the court shall
  inform him of the charge or charges against him, furnish him with a copy
  of the accusatory instrument and inform him of his  rights  pursuant  to
  section  170.10  of  the  criminal  procedure law. Such proceeding shall
  thereafter continue in the manner otherwise provided by law.