Shoplifting, Larceny, Robbery, Theft Defense of property as a defense for an assult 4 DV charge

[echo1313]

My ex husband stole my purse and dumped $400 in property and money down a storm drain. While trying to get my purese back to prevent this, I punched him in the face. Now I'm charged with assult 4 DV. I am a criminal justice major and really don't want this screwing it up for me. I need case law info on defense of property as a defense and how to present it at trial. I also am worried my PD isn't doing his job. If this becomes apperant durring trial, can I fire him and ask for new representation, and if so how do I go about it?

 

[mightymoose]

The defense of property argument won't get you anywhere. Your only justification for striking him would be for defense of your self. The DV charge sounds like it might be appropriate based on the few details you gave. It sounds as if there might be a related property crime against him.
It sounds dangerously close to being a robbery- was the ex charged with anything?

A DV charge against you will be pretty harsh if you are looking to get on with a police department or any other sworn position, but there are plenty of non-sworn jobs that you would still be able to get.

No, you can't really fire your PD, but you can always hire private counsel to replace him.