Backstreet’s Back In Court

Gossip and entertainment magazines keep the public informed when a celebrity is arrested. Although these actors and singers are just like anyone else, news of their DUI or drug arrest will make tabloid’s front pages. However, when a celebrity assaults a member of the public, they may also find themselves in court facing a personal injury lawsuit.

Backstreet Boys’ Nick Carter was arrested outside of a bar in Key West, Florida. Police were called after Carter and his friend reportedly grabbed a bouncer by the neck. They both faced misdemeanor battery charges. However, prosecutors dropped the charges against Carter as part of a deal. Carter would have to complete 25 hours of community service and pay $300 in fees.

Even if Carter was not criminally prosecuted, he can still face civil charges. In this case, the bouncer, Skylar Carden, has filed a lawsuit against Carter for his intentional actions. According to Carden, the “backstreet thug” attacked and choked him, causing him “bodily injury, mental anguish, pain and suffering.”

Assault and battery can be treated as both criminal violations, and as civil torts. Assault and battery falls under the category of an intentional tort, and the victim can seek damages through a personal injury lawsuit. Most personal injury lawsuits involve claims of negligence, rather than intentional action. However, assault and battery lawsuits claim that the defendant intentionally acted in a certain way that caused another person injury.

The episode began when Carter and his friend were being escorted out of the Hog’s Breath Saloon. According to security personnel, they were asked to leave the bar for unruly behavior. Carter then became more aggressive, hitting the bouncer, and grabbing him by the throat before they were taken outside. Video of the aftermath has apparently surfaced on the TMZ website.

Carter later acknowledged his mistake. In a message on Twitter, he wrote, “I am human and at times it can be a struggle to balance a healthy lifestyle. I’m not perfect and for that I am sorry.” He continued, “When we fall we have to get up and keep on walking. I hope you stand by my side and continue to walk with me.” However, Carter’s message did not include an apology to the bouncer he’d injured.

According to the National Crime Victim Bar Association, there are a number of reasons why an assault victim would benefit from filing a civil lawsuit. This includes having more control over the civil case, compensation for their pain and suffering, holding the offender directly accountable, and preventing similar events in the future.

If you or a loved one has been assaulted, grabbed, or put in imminent fear of harm, you may want to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. Your personal injury lawyer will make sure you are compensated for your injuries and any pain you’ve suffered. At Gilman & Bedigian we have been fighting for injury victims for decades, with a focus on getting you the compensation you deserve, so you can get better and move forward with your life.