, Question 1(a): Draft of Mr. Maks Diesel’s Plea Statement
IN THE MAGISTRATES’ COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF PRETORIA
CASE NO: [Insert Case Number]
STATE vs. MAKS DIESEL
PLEA STATEMENT OF THE ACCUSED
1. Introduction
I, Maks Diesel, hereby make the following statement in relation to the charge of
assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) brought against me. I
understand the nature of the charge, and after consulting with my legal
representative, I intend to plead not guilty. I request the court to consider the facts
as I set out herein.
2. Personal Background of the Accused
I am an adult male residing at [full address], employed as [occupation]. I have no
previous convictions for violent offences and maintain a history of responsible
behaviour in my community.
3. Circumstances of the Alleged Incident
On [insert date], I was at [location] when an incident allegedly occurred involving the
complainant, [name of complainant]. I wish to place on record that at the time of the
alleged assault:
• I was acting purely in self-defence after the complainant approached me
aggressively, wielding [insert object if relevant], and threatened my life.
• I did not intend to cause serious injury; my actions were proportionate to the
threat I perceived and aimed solely at neutralising imminent danger.
• The injuries suffered by the complainant were accidental consequences of
defensive action, not the result of any deliberate intention to inflict grievous
bodily harm.
4. Factual Clarifications
• I maintain that I did not initiate any confrontation. Any contact that occurred
was a reflexive act to protect myself from a clear and present threat.
IN THE MAGISTRATES’ COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF PRETORIA
CASE NO: [Insert Case Number]
STATE vs. MAKS DIESEL
PLEA STATEMENT OF THE ACCUSED
1. Introduction
I, Maks Diesel, hereby make the following statement in relation to the charge of
assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) brought against me. I
understand the nature of the charge, and after consulting with my legal
representative, I intend to plead not guilty. I request the court to consider the facts
as I set out herein.
2. Personal Background of the Accused
I am an adult male residing at [full address], employed as [occupation]. I have no
previous convictions for violent offences and maintain a history of responsible
behaviour in my community.
3. Circumstances of the Alleged Incident
On [insert date], I was at [location] when an incident allegedly occurred involving the
complainant, [name of complainant]. I wish to place on record that at the time of the
alleged assault:
• I was acting purely in self-defence after the complainant approached me
aggressively, wielding [insert object if relevant], and threatened my life.
• I did not intend to cause serious injury; my actions were proportionate to the
threat I perceived and aimed solely at neutralising imminent danger.
• The injuries suffered by the complainant were accidental consequences of
defensive action, not the result of any deliberate intention to inflict grievous
bodily harm.
4. Factual Clarifications
• I maintain that I did not initiate any confrontation. Any contact that occurred
was a reflexive act to protect myself from a clear and present threat.
