Case:

CHRIS: SIMPLE SCHOOL FIGHT LEADS TO CHARGE

Chris is a 15-year-old who has been charged with aggravated assault. After a show-cause hearing, he was released pending trial into the care of his parents, with whom he lives.

The alleged assault took place at his high school, where he got into an argument with another 15-year-old named Victor. The argument got heated, and witnesses say Chris pushed Victor. Victor fell down some stairs and fractured both legs. His recovery took several months and involved his participation in rehabilitation programs and physiotherapy. Chris had been previously charged with assault against another boy, Imran, and had been on probation at the time Victor was hurt.

Chris is adamant that he had not pushed Victor and that, if he had made contact at all, it was an accident and not a "push." He has entered a plea of not guilty to the charge of aggravated assault. After entering the plea, Chris got into an argument with his lawyer and fired him, giving the reason that "the man couldn't be trusted." So now, as he prepares for trial, Chris also has to find new legal representation.

question:

If Chris enters not guilty plea and proceeds to trial, what kind of instructions would

you expect Chris to give to his new lawyer?