Mr. Oliver just finished representing a client that had been charged with aggravated assault in the second degree, in violation of NJSA 2C:12-1b(7) based on an altercation that took place outside a bar. The fact that a fight ensued between the Defendant and the victim was never in dispute. Nor was the fact that the victim suffered serious injuries, which consisted of multiple facial fractures and that he was knocked unconscious. However, the victims versions of event drastically differed from his clients. After a very through review of the discovery, which included not only the medical records but also several witnesses statements and 911 calls, it was clear that the victim’s version of events did not line up. The victim had insisted that he was viciously attacked by the Defendant for what he claimed, was no apparent reason. However, the evidence provided told a very different story. After pointing out the serious proof issues that existed, Mr. Oliver and the prosecution were able to come to a very favorable resolution. The Defendant, who was already on probation at the time of the offense for two separate incidents, one which involved the theft of movable property and the other resisting arrest, would enter a plea of guilty to the offense of simple assault. In turn, the Defendant would be placed back on probation for a term of one year and that probation would run concurrent to the probation that the Defendant was already on. In addition, for the violations of probation, the Defendant would simply be reinstated. So, the Defendant went from facing up to ten years in a State Prison and a fine up to $150,000 to being placed back on probation.Read More