3 x ABH charge

[rizpick]

Today I got charged for 3 counts of ABH. It was incident that occured just after xmas, in which 3 gentleman started abusing a friend for his hair colour, basically calling him ginger and so forth. My friend shouted back and we tried to calm the situation down. They started to abuse us and then threatened us. One of the guys then pushed a friend and my friend retaliated. Thats pretty much when our 2 parties started to fight. I was involved trying to help all three friends from the three 'victims'. All 4 of us are hardworking individuals and have never had any type of criminal issues. I dont agree with violence and if I am honest their is probably one part where i think the line for self defence and defence of another is crossed.

My question lies in why I have been charged with 3 serious offences. It is quite clear in the cctv that i have not administered any injuries that fall under the ABH charging standards. Also the the medical records show that 2 out of the three of them have only minor bumps and scratches. The third guy required stitches to his lip, but that is quite clearly inflicted before my involvement. My solicitor is shocked as he thinks it falls under a typical section 4. It was a 30 second group fight, and we did not chase or retribute. I am worried and very confused about the charges... any advice or experiences shared regarding this would be very much appreciated.

[rizpick]

I understand that Eddie, it just seems like theres very little consistency in CPS charging, i have looked at many precedents and none of which are like this. I still dont understand how minor bumps and bruises over a short time is not more befitting to common assault or why a single affray charge is not more applicable?

[rizpick]

Thanks Eddie, I have read a few times about CPS over charging in order to 'scare-monger' and thus allow for negotiation into a guilty plea of a lesser charge. I stated in the police station not guilty and will go to the first hearing with a not guilty plea. Its ironic as I was in the station yesterday with my solicitor he was speaking to another constable and the constable was waiting for a defendant that hit a paramedic. He was issuing the defendant with a caution. Their should be some way to monitor the charging and inconsistencies of the charging of CPS and the police by a 3rd party.
Sorry one more question, as my job is only just over the not applicable for legal aid amount, i am finding I have to get a loan to cover the legal fees. My solicitor has quoted £750 for works building up to any hearing. Then the case will be a seperate cost, to which he says if it goes to crown I should be able to get some help. Do you know how much these things can add upto, I am trying to assume how much I will have to borrow to see me through this? Also is £750 a fair price for works priced by my solicitor?

[Mike25]

Interesting question, I am in a similar situation although I never really thought about the cost of all this! You do know that if you are found not guilty or the case is dismissed then you pay nothing!