New York Criminal Lawyer Blog
A New York City Criminal Lawyer is not overwhelmed or even shocked that a popular pop star has had his sentence lightened after such a short period of time. The famous R&B singer who at 21 years old has been sentenced to five years probation, a one year domestic violence course, and community service.
The star was originally sentenced after pleading guilty to assaulting another celebrity, his ex-girlfriend, prior to the 2009 Grammy Awards. Even with the modified sentence, he is prevented from harassing or annoying girlfriend, but can speak to her if necessary. The girlfriend’s lawyer stated to a Long Island Criminal Lawyer that she was fine with the modified order. It has not yet been determined whether the man 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 the star and his girlfriend get back together. Most fans feel that both artists are better off apart.
The question has been raised by fans of why the star did not receive jail time or at least a harsher punishment, but sources show that girlfriend, her lawyer, and the star’s lawyer came to an agreement for the lesser punishment. The girlfriend did not push the issue of trial, maybe for fear of losing or the man receiving no punishment. Public comments also reflect the thought that though the pop star is allowed to contact his ex-girlfriend, 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 star wishes to contact his girlfriend 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 the star’s goal is to boost the number of public appearances or to apologize to his ex-girlfriend in person does not really matter as he is allowed to do either without fear. The only provision of the modified judgment is that the star, if speaking to his ex, does so in a respectful manner. He may not harass or annoy his girlfriend in any way, which should be common sense, but had to be placed in judicial writing.
Though the star was not punished as severely as he could have been for a charge involving domestic violence, his chances to remain completely free may have been enhanced by using a skilled legal counsel. If taken to court his lawyer may have been able to get probation without community service or domestic violence classes. No one will ever know what a difference a skilled lawyer could have made in this situation.