ABH/GBH with a suspended sentence?

[Jason85]

Back in November I got caught up in a fight which ended up badly. I was charged with Affray and GBH Section 20 and took to magistrates where I got bail. There were 4 involved and I didn't cause the injuries but was involved in the fight.

I'm the only one whose been in trouble before. 2 years ago I got a 18 month suspended sentence and community service. I was done for TWOC and drink driving but I was going to college and the judge said he would give me a break. I haven't been in any trouble since but I know the suspended sentence is still there.

I feel bad about this as I think I have really messed up. The guy who was injured is known to the cops too if that makes any difference.

What I want to know if the suspended sentence wil come into it as it was for something different. Also my solicitor is advising me to plead guilty but I don't think I should as I think the only chance I have of staying out of prison is being found not guilty. He says I could be looking at 4-5 years if I go not guilty but think he might be giving me the worst case. I'm back to him next week but just wondering what people think?

[sara3]

your previous record will only be brought up for consideration when sentencing, so only if you plead guilty or are found guilty. I doubt a big deal would be made of it as it is unrelated, but it is within a reasonably short amount of time so the prosecution would probably bring it up.

I assume you know that if you plead guilty, you get an automatic reduction in any sentence (fine, community punishment, etc), and the earlier you enter your plea the greater reduction you get, up to a third.

look at the wording on the summons. if you're guilty of what it alleges I would suggest you plead guilty. your solicitor probably knows best but it is for you to decide...