Most people accused of crimes insist that they are innocent. However, a sizable majority of criminal defendants eventually enter a guilty plea rather than take their case to trial.
Frequently, their guilty plea is part of a broader plea bargain negotiated by their attorney. Partnering with a lawyer to negotiate with the prosecutor’s office can lead to better outcomes for those facing criminal charges.
What potential benefits do defendants derive from negotiating a plea bargain?
1. Fewer charges or lesser offenses
Prosecutors frequently pursue the most severe charges they can justify, given the evidence that they have. They may even pursue multiple criminal charges, all stemming from the same incident. The terms of a plea bargain may require that the prosecutor dismiss all but one of the charges or reduce the charges against the defendant.
2. The elimination of penalties
Different crimes carry different potential consequences. State law imposes both minimum and maximum penalties for various offenses. A plea bargain often includes provisions agreed to by the prosecutor that eliminate specific penalties, such as jail time.
3. Reduced publicity
A trial might draw the attention of the local media. It may also result in the release of personal, reputation-damaging information. Plea bargains prevent the exposure of private information during a trial. In some cases, prosecutors even agree to limit what information they present when finalizing the deal in criminal court.
Reviewing pending criminal charges and possible penalties with a skilled legal team can help defendants make informed choices. A plea deal can be a viable strategy for those concerned about the severity of the charges that they face and/or the penalties that the courts might impose.