Hearing Delayed for Retired NBA Star Jayson Williams
There has been much discussion lately regarding retired NBA star Jayson Williams and his postponed hearing. According to a recent report, the Somerville hearing, in which Williams was expected to enter a plea for a 2002 shooting death of a hired driver, was indefinitely delayed.
One source stated that the delay is partly related to travel issues experienced by Williams in getting to New Jersey from South Carolina. It is also being said that he will plead guilty to aggravated assault. If Williams does in fact plead guilty to the assault charge, he will face a minimum 18-month sentence due to a gun being involved in the driver’s death.
The former NBA player was acquitted in 2004 for aggravated manslaughter, but was convicted of covering-up the shooting, which took place at his mansion in New Jersey. In awaiting a second trial for reckless manslaughter, which carries a maximum 10-year sentence, the jury deadlocked on the reckless manslaughter count.
Adding to the several complexities of this case, Williams paid over $2 million in 2003 to settle a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the deceased driver’s family. The article mentions that “years of legal sparring followed the trial,” in which a former investigator used racial slurs to describe Williams during testimony. It was therefore noted by the defense that racism had tarnished the investigation.
No matter how minor or severe the New Jersey assault charges are against you, it may be a wise decision to consult with an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney. At Lependorf & Silverstein, our aggressive lawyers know the ins and outs of local court systems and the various angles that prosecutors may take in building a case against you. In dedicating our work to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you make the appropriate legal decisions, we will organize a strong defense to obtain a successful outcome in your case. Call Lependorf & Silverstein today at 609-240-0040 for a free consultation.
Source article: http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/34039315/
