ABH Case

[Brooker94]

Easter Saturday, an incident broke out at a house party over beer. I was hit several times (consequently, I received two black eyes as a result.) I tried methods of evasion during the incident but this came to no avail and I was extremely concerned for my health and safety therefore I felt it was suitable to strike the "victim" back and although I had hit him less times than me, he has come off the worse including a cracked rib hence the ABH charge. Personally I completely regret the incident and appreciate that there were other ways about it but as a first time offender I feel that it will mess up my plans to be a pilot in the future. I am awaiting Magistrates court in a few weeks and I'm feeling very anxious. Any guidance or support?

[Thekopman]

Hi Brooker.
In a similar situation at moment.Would probably say mine is slightly worse than yours.Over aggressive bouncer punches my brother - I lose it and hit him 3 or 4 times.Glassin my hand - 2 small cuts on his head. Like you I regret it and just wished I had walked away.

I am in magistrates tomorrow for it to be committed to Crown Court.This is firstly because CPS deemed it serious enough for Crown and secondly my solicitor advised a no plea at this stage as I would lose all credit and could just be sent to jail by magistrate without much case knowledge. I would class it as 50-50 for jail but I did use a weapon and I think this is the factor that could send me away.I like you have no record,family,kids etc.

A big factor is how premeditated it was - by the sounds of it it wasnt on your part and I would say self defense is your argument.In my case I am awaiting for the commital and going from there. Look at my own post for advise I have had which may apply to yourself to an extent!

[Thekopman]

Have a look at section 17 - these are guidlines that judges are obliged to go by when sentencing.
click below
http://www.sentencing...inst-the%20person.pdf