New York Criminal Lawyer Blog
An obsrver is not overwhelmed or even shocked that Chris Brown has had his sentence lightened after such a short period of time. Chris Brown is a famous R&B singer who at 21 years old has been sentenced to five years of probation, a one year domestic violence course, and community service.
Chris Brown was originally sentenced after pleading guilty to assaulting Rhianna, his ex-girlfriend, prior to the 2009 Grammy Awards. Even with the modified sentence, Brown is prevented from harassing or annoying Rhianna, but can speak to her if necessary. Rhianna’s lawyer stated that she was fine with the modified order. It has not yet been determined whether Chris Brown has completed the domestic violence course or the community service; however he is still on probation for the remainder of the five year sentence. The public is not outraged, but also not looking forward to the fallout if Brown and Rhianna get back together. Most fans feel that both artists are better off apart.
The question has been raised by fans of why Brown did not receive jail time or at least a harsher punishment, but sources show that Rhianna, her lawyer, and Brown’s lawyer came to an agreement for the lesser punishment. Rhianna did not push the issue of trial, maybe for fear of losing or Brown receiving no punishment, which may have happened had he had a good advisor. Public comments also reflect the thought that though Chris Brown is allowed to contact Rhianna, which he simply wanted the extended freedom to be able to attend awards shows. Fans and the public in general feel this break up, whether enforced by the law or not will enhance the careers of both artists for the better.
Whether Brown wishes to contact Rhianna or not, he now has the freedom to attend public events at the same time as her without fear of being in violation of a restraining order. So whether Brown’s goal is to boost the number of public appearances or to apologize to Rhianna in person does not really matter as he is allowed to do either without fear, explained a source. The only provision of the modified judgment is that Brown, if speaking to Rhianna, does so in a respectful manner. Brown may not harass or annoy Rhianna in any way, which should be common sense, but had to be placed in judicial writing. The same rules would apply in Brooklyn and Queens.
Though Chris Brown was not punished as severely as he could have been, his chances to remain completely free may have been enhanced by using a better advisor. If taken to court Brown’s lawyer may have been able to get probation without community service or domestic violence classes.
No one will ever know what a difference a New York Criminal Attorney could have made in this situation.