Originally Posted by
franknstein
First, when we go to court on this, is there any chance that the dude will actually get convicted due to what I said to him?
Second, since he kept calling me homophobic slurs, is there any way that he'd get hit with a hate crime charge? Despite me not being gay?
And finally, he slammed my head into a wall and ruined my helmet, would he have to pay for me to replace my helmet?
1. Yes, he is likely to be convicted. Actually, he is likely to plea bargain, because that's how most cases are resolved. A person can be convicted based on a single witness' testimony, and it sounds like you have at least one or two others who will back up your story. Also, it is not legal to attack someone because they called you a bad name.
2. Hate crime laws usually apply to felonies, and this guy is charged with a misdemeanor. It might be different where you live.
3. If he is convicted, the judge certainly will order restitution for your helmet. Whether and when the guy will pay it is another question. Save the receipt when you buy a new one to show the judge how much you spent.