My question involves criminal law for the province of: Ontario, Canada
I have a few concerns and is seeking help. (I'm not directly involved in the matter).
The case is regarding a domestic dispute resulting in the man being charged of Assault Causing Bodily Harm.
They had a relationship/ history of mental, verbal and physical abuse - totally unhealthy. She has called the cops on him a few times but never pressed charges. Last year, during a verbal altercation, it became physical. end result: he ended up punching her and leaving her with a black eye. - she has pictures to prove it and did seek medical assistance but nothing "major" aside for the visual proof. 3 months after the incident, she decided to press charges and he is now charged of ACBH - first offence. Needless to say that their relationship ended on bad terms (right after the incident). He has been offered a plea deal: 3-6 months house arrest + 2 years probation.
Questions: Would it be wise to avoid jail time by taking the plea deal, but still having a criminal record OR taking the risk of pleading not guilty, going to trial and losing the case? Is there enough substance for him to actually win a case of that nature by claiming self defence? Is there any other way of avoiding jail time/criminal record? What to do, what to do
Thank you for any feedback!

