advise please!

[llbrown5599]

What is the name of your state? Missouri I was recently charged with domestic assult 3rd. I am female. I was the one who called 911. Basically, it was an arguement that got out of control and although, most of the bruising was done to me, I was considered the aggressor, which is why I was arrested. I have a hearing on 4/21/03. Do I need a lawyer? My spouse is not pursuing any charges, but an attorney that I spoke with said I could face up to 1 year in jail, $1000 fine, or what he called "shock" jail time. I make too much for an public defense and not enough for a $1000 attorney. Any advise?

 

[ccarter]

I live in Missouri also, and as sad as it is to say, this state is NOT good for enforcing punishment against domestic violence offenders. First offense?? You'll probably get probation, but I would definitely get an attorney.

By the way, not LEGAL advice here, just what has been my experience with the "law" here.