Amanda Bynes’ bong-tossing case may be heading for a conclusion by the end of the year, her attorney, Gerald Shargel said on Thursday.

Shargel was in Manhattan Criminal Court, where he made a brief appearance representing his client Thursday morning during a hearing. Bynes could not attend, as she is still in Southern California. She is being treated in a psychiatric ward there.

Shargel told The New York Daily News that it is possible that Bynes could still be under a psych hold by the time of the next hearing in the case on Dec. 5. Even if she can’t be there, Shargel said that the case could still be cleared up then.

“If she's not able to be here it doesn't mean there can't be a resolution on the case...It's uncertain when she'll be released,” he said.

He added that he is constant contact with the Manhattan District Attorney's office. He is hoping to have the bong case “resolved” by December.

TMZ is also reporting that its sources suggest that the case could either be heading for a plea deal or the charges could be dismissed, since there are holes in the prosecution’s case.

Also this week, Bynes could not make a court appearance in California for her 2012 DUI case because of her treatment. Her lawyer there, Rich Hutton, filed documents stating that he believes she is mentally unfit to stand trial.

The bong-throwing incident happened on May 23 and was the beginning of a string of odd behavior from the former Nickelodeon star. She infamously showed up to the first court hearing in the case wearing a bright blue wig.

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