Legal Question in Criminal Law in District of Columbia

accusation of domestic violence: destruction of propert

I am currently being accused of misdemeanor domestic violence: destruction of property/theft. My former gay partner is saying that I destroyed a laptop and other electronics, totaling $1500 and that I took his check book, pictures, and cds. He is a student at Georgetown University and his roommates nor him were awake when I left around 3:30. There were no witnesses and he is accusing that I did these things, for all I know he could have done them. I was visiting my cousin at Georgetown University on Nov. 17, 2003, apparently, my ex filled charges and a warrant was issued. I think this may be retaliation for me ending our relation ship the night before I came to visit and get my things from his dorm. The court of dc offered a plea bargain to pay him $1000 and go to domestic violence counseling. I declined the plea and am going to trial. Honestly I have been scared since I did not accept the plea bargain, not because I am guilty, but because if I and him go to court and I plead not guilty, it will be my word against his. I am 20 years old and in college in New Jersey and I have no prior record at all. The court date is Jan. 22, 2004. I know my innocence but what if I am not believed, what am I facing? Can I appeal? Thanks


Asked on 11/20/03, 1:06 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: accusation of domestic violence: destruction of propert

You should engage the services of competent criminal defense counsel (preferably, familiar with criminal practice at D.C. Superior Court) to represent you. And one should never,ever, agree to plead guilty to crime(s) which they did not commit.

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Answered on 11/20/03, 10:16 am


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