Willow-tree one-punch attack accused Raymond Tony Caban likely to argue it was self-defence in Tamworth Local Court

Raymond Tony Caban appeared in Tamworth Local Court via video link from prison on Monday, after he previously pleaded not guilty to a charge of causing reckless grievous bodily harm.

Whether or not the alleged attack qualifies as grievous bodily harm is likely to be an issue, but the matter is expected to be handed to private solicitor Gary Johnston on the next occasion, Legal Aid solicitor Wendy McAuliffe said.

"For his benefit I confirm it is a plea of not guilty, and I am asking for a hearing date," she said.

"I believe there may also be a self-defense issue.

"I will have Mr Johnston liaise with the prosecutor to look at some of those issues."

The court heard Caban has a number of other hearing matters listed for February 12.

Magistrate Leanne Atkins told the court that unless the cases are related she would not list the one-punch charge on the same date.

"No, it can't go on that date, it would just be impossible," she said.

"I will put it to April 8, three hours should be enough for reckless grievous bodily harm.

"It will go over for hearing for three hours until April 8, I note bail is not applied for and it's formally refused.

"I note grievous bodily harm is an issue and it may be an issue of self-defense."

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Oxley Police District detectives allege a 28-year-old man was hit in the face and knocked unconscious on the afternoon of November 8, at Willow Tree.

Police claim Caban, also 28, was drinking with a group at a Willow Tree home when he allegedly turned on the victim and punched him in the face between 12:15am and 1:10am.

The alleged victim was rushed to Quirindi Hospital before the Westpac Rescue Helicopter transported him to Newcastle's John Hunter Hospital.

The injured man has since been released and police believe the pair are known to each other.