Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Pennsylvania

Consent Decree Sign or Don't Sign

Our son age 17 cited for harrassment,disorderly conduct,& assult. He did throw the first punch - the victim did not press charges the police were called by a passerby. Our son agrees with the charges the officer submitted but there were three boys that basically were stalking our son and crusing our section of the city looking for our house. I know the boys were not in our neighborhood to play marbles they were here to fight. The victim is now seeing our sons exgirl friend and they have had heated discussing for weeks prior to the incident. My son was offered 6 month probation and medical bills or we can go to court loose and till have 1 year probation and still have to pay the med. bills. the victim is 18 just graduated and on his way to college so he is most likely still covered under his parents health plan - how would we know if we are paying for something not owed. Should we cut our losses and go for the 6 mo. prob. or go to court and hope they drop all the charges. we realize if they just drop only one charge we are still reponsible for the medical bills. As some background - our son is a good kid - no record - works full time in the summer - part time in the school year - will be a jr. this year - good attendance


Asked on 8/03/06, 5:31 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: Consent Decree Sign or Don't Sign

You really need to speak with a criminal attorney in your locality. He explain your options and how to minimize repercussions. You really want to minimize this incident so that it doesn't affect your son for the rest of his life.

As to damages, whether the individual is covered under insurance or not is irrelevant. Even if the insurer pays all the expenses it is still a measure of injury to the victim. Further, the insurer could always insist that the victim press charges or seek recovery in civil court. And don't forget, that the victim can always sue in civil court no matter what the outcome on the criminal side.

As I said, you need to engage a local attorney to handle all aspects of this matter. It will not suffice to try to get piecemeal advice on bulletin boards.

Regards,

Roger Traversa

Email: [email protected]

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Answered on 8/03/06, 11:20 pm


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