If I was charged with 2 counts of simple assault and have to go to court, should I have a lawyer?
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If I was charged with 2 counts of simple assault and have to go to court, should I have a lawyer?
My family/friends have advised me to plead no contest and that it’s not necessary to get a court appointed lawyer. But a friend who’s been through this suggested I pay the small fee for the court appointed lawyer and have my fines reduced. I don’t know what to do. My family says getting a lawyer would drag the case on, but my friend is concerned that my fines will be a lot. I’m not even sure what kind of fines I’m looking at for this and my family says probably not more than something in the $200-$300 range. What should I do?
Asked on June 7, 2014 under Criminal Law, New Hampshire
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
Your friend is correct. It would be advisable to be represented by an attorney, who may be able to negotiate a reduction in the charge, sentence, fine, etc. Without an attorney, you will be at a disadvantage and it will be unlikely that you will be successful in seeking a reduction in the charge, sentence, fine, etc.
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