SUSSEX, Va. -- Michael Vick was a no show to a Virginia court Wednesday morning. The suspended Falcons quarterback skipped a hearing in the new, state animal fighting case against him. But the proceedings went on without him – and Vick is now facing a trial.

Vick is scheduled to appear at the Sussex County Courthouse November 27.

Vick is now officially charged with two Virginia state animal fighting crimes. Sheriff's deputies in Surry County released Vick's mug shot Wednesday afternoon.

They brought in two dozen extra police officers for security - just in case the celebrity quarterback showed up for Wednesday’s court proceedings.

But Michael Vick did not. Instead he sent Larry Woodward - one of his defense attorneys -- instead.

Woodward informed the judge that Vick had turned himself in to local authorities last week. Then he agreed to return with Vick in late November so the court could set a trial date. But Woodward refused to hint at what type of defense Vick will make.

The prosecutor in Virginia - Gerald Poindexter - said all four co-defendants from the federal case, Vick included, will be prosecuted in this state case.

All will appear together next month

No plea deals were announced in court Wednesday morning.

Though this case isn't attracting the crowds and the attention, of the high-profile federal proceedings, Vick could face ten years in state prison, if convicted and animal rights groups say they're watching closely.