If I am the victim of simple assault and battery, do I need an attorney at the hearing?

Answer by  Tranwreck (279)

A lawyer can protect you and help you in almost any legal situation. However, the victim of a crime is not required by law to have an attorney present.

Answer by  romanguy (233)

If you are just appearing as a witness, there is no reason for you to have an attorney. You are not on trial, and the prosecutor is the one presenting your case. If you want to sue the person who battered to obtain damages, this is done in a seperate proceeding for which you would need a lawyer.

Answer by  JohnnyBee (65)

In criminal court, the victim never needs an attorney. Prosecution is handled by an attorney appointed by the Prosecutor's office.

Answer by  beardednail (81)

No, in most cases like this the District Attorney will be representing you. There should be no reason to hire a lawyer for criminal charges you have filed.

Answer by  mediajunkie (592)

If it is a criminal hearing, you would not usually require representation as it is the prosecutor's goal to make sure the charges go through. If it is a civil hearing and you are seeking damages, an attorney would help increase your chances of getting a settlement.

Answer by  xsut (943)

If you are a victim of simple assault and battery you should definitely bring an attorney to be sure that the best legal proceedings for you.

Answer by  Stan567 (417)

The prosecutor represents your interests to some extent, so you shouldn't need one. However, you should have an attorney if you have a need to protect yourself.

Answer by  visira779 (269)

Yes, you can have an attorney available if you feel that it will make your case go smoothly. And you can also have any factual evidence of medical reports that will prove that you have actually been assaulted if there are any.

Answer by  leann89 (169)

It's always a good idea to hire an attorney or have a public defender whenever you are involved in a case. This helps ensure that you are not short changed by the opposing attorney whose job is to ensure that their client is cleared of the accused crime.