abh

[Aimzxox]

Some one I know is going on trial on Wednesday. He has been charged with three counts of a.b.h. and one public order offence. It is the first time he has been charged for such offences. however he cannot afford representation and apparantly has nine witness against him. will this affect his chances and what sort of sentence should he expect?

[Ethel]

Everyone accused of a criminal offence is entitled to legal aid representation.

Are you in the UK?

[Buenchico]

As Ethel indicates, your friend(?) should be able to get free legal aid. Tell him to look in yellow Pages, first thing on Monday morning, under 'Solicitors'. He should look for the words 'Criminal Defence Service' in the advertisements.

Chris

[seatrout]

Its not really the number of witnesses but what they saw which is important. If all nine are giving much the same account then your friend will be in difficulty.

Sentence will depend on severity of the assaults and which court ie magistrates or crown and of course any aggravating or mitigating factors