[mad_as_snow]

I have been charged with assault class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. I do not have a criminal record. This occured at a grocery store on Sept. 17 when I was at the check-out. I have been accused of "squeezing" the cashier's hand when I took my change from her hand. I admit I was a little miffed after she told me I had to go to customer service to take care of a pricing error with my purchases but I did not intentionally try to hurt her in any way. I never threatened her nor did I make any motions to hit her so I don't understand why I am being charged for assault. I am not a violent person and I have never been in trouble with the law before. I did get arrested for this but was released on my own recognizance. The trial date is Oct. 30. I could use any advice you can give me right now. I don't have much money so I don't know if I can afford an attorney and I just want this to be cleared somehow. Thank you.

[Mr. Knowitall]

You say that you engaged in a forceful, unwanted touching - that can be sufficient to support a battery charge. You should consider consulting a lawyer or requesting a court-appointed lawyer, as a lawyer will increase your chances of finding a way to avoid a criminal conviction.