“If he hit her, he could definitely face jail time. The decision as to whether it would be a felony or misdemeanor depends on the degree of the injuries and how they were inflected,” LA Criminal Defense Attorney, James Silverstein told HollywoodLife.com EXCLUSIVELY.
“If any type of weapon was used, that could increase Johnny Depp’s liability, especially in the criminal case, where he could face a felony and possibility jail time,” James continued. In addition to potential felony charges and jail time, Johnny could also face “punitive damages in a civil lawsuit,” the defense attorney added.
Amber submitted a photo of her bruised face from one of the attacks as well as a statement, alleging Johnny of attacked her with an iPhone. Although the photo and statement are considered sufficient enough to detain and convict the Rum Diary actor, Amber may still have a difficult time fighting this case, according to our source.
[jwplatform U0DtkN3s]
“While Amber’s allegations that Johnny assaulted and battered her is technically sufficient evidence to convict Johnny at a criminal trial, or to find him liable in a civil lawsuit, she is likely to face an uphill battle of proof without corroborating evidence, such as documented injuries, or a witness testimony,” James said.
A friend of Amber’s was allegedly on the phone during the time of one attack on May 21, and begged her friend to call 911, but it is uncertain whether that will constitute as an appropriate witness.
The Drive Angry star allegedly also has footage of the attack, which may shed more light on what exactly happened during the incident. The video will most likely be a crucial factor for the courts in deciding whether or not Johnny is guilt of felony charges or a misdemeanor. But the government mandates that the court must find Johnny guilty “beyond reasonable doubt.” Felony charges in the state of California start from one year or more.
HollywoodLifers, can you believe everything that is happening between Amber and Johnny?