California Criminal Defense Lawyers
Chris Brown Due Back in Court for Rihanna Case
People Magazine
After lying low for the past month - working, playing basketball and receiving counseling - Chris Brown's courthouse drama resumes Monday afternoon.
The singer, 19, who's required to show in person in a Los Angeles courtroom, is expected to enter a plea on two felony counts for his allegedly violent fight with girlfriend Rihanna on Feb. 8.
As for Rihanna, her attorney Donald Etra told PEOPLE outside the courtroom Monday, "Nothing's changed with regard to Rihanna's stance toward this case . She will testify if subpoenaed and will do everything that's required of her to do."
Currently the singer, is "doing fine," says Etra. "She's in Barbados now with her family."
In terms of what will likely happen at Monday's hearing, "Unless a plea deal with prosecutors has been worked out behind the scenes, Brown will probably plead not guilty," says L.A. criminal defense attorney Steve Sitkoff, who's not involved with the case. "His lawyer may want more time to develop his defense, and Brown can always change his plea down the road."
What Could Happen
Among the possible scenarios Monday:
- Brown pleads not guilty, and a new hearing date is set. The next hearing will determine if there's enough evidence to go to trial.
- He could accept a plea deal on lesser charges and be sentenced on the spot. Some jail time is possible.
- He could enter a guilty plea to both felonies but the case could later be reduced to misdemeanors if he complies with court orders.
- His lawyer could ask for another postponement of the arraignment.
Rihanna, 21, is not required nor expected to show, says L.A. District Attorney spokeswoman Sandi Gibbons, who adds: "We have every indication that she's still a cooperating witness."
The pair have remained in contact but are taking a break from their relationship, says a source. The Umbrella singer has recently been jet-setting between L.A., Honolulu, New York and Barbados.
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