If you have been accused of a crime, it can be an overwhelming experience. You may feel scared and confused as to what your next steps should be. One option that is available to many defendants is the possibility of a plea bargain. But what exactly is a plea bargain? How does it work? Knowing the answers to these questions can help you make informed decisions about your legal situation.
A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and defense in a criminal case. It involves the defendant agreeing to plead guilty or no contest to a certain charge in exchange for some form of sentence reduction or other consideration from the prosecution. Depending on the specifics of the case, this could mean that instead of facing a longer prison term or more serious charges, you might be able to receive a lesser sentence such as probation.
There are many different considerations that go into making such an agreement. Your attorney will evaluate your situation and determine if it would be beneficial for you to make a plea deal with the prosecution. If not, then you may have to proceed with a trial. Ultimately, it’s up to you whether you accept a plea bargain, but it’s important to understand all the options available to you and the potential consequences of each one.
Pros and Cons of Accepting a Plea Bargain
Accepting a plea bargain can be a beneficial way to resolve criminal charges, but it is important to understand both the pros and cons. On the plus side, you will likely face a much lighter sentence than if you went to trial and were found guilty. This means fewer or no jail time, a shorter probation period, and lower fines. Accepting a plea bargain can also mean that you have more control over the outcome than if you risk a jury trial.
However, there are also potential drawbacks when it comes to accepting a plea bargain. When you accept a plea deal, you are essentially admitting guilt in the eyes of the court because you are pleading either guilty or no contest. This could result in more severe consequences down the line such as difficulty finding employment or having your rights restricted due to your criminal record. Additionally, if new evidence arises at any point in time that proves your innocence, it is unlikely that your plea deal would be reversed even if this new evidence was not available during your original trial proceedings.
Plea Bargaining Process
When considering whether a plea bargain is beneficial, it’s important to understand exactly how the process works. The first step is for your attorney to evaluate your situation and determine if it would be beneficial for you to make a plea deal with the prosecution. If so, then negotiations will begin between your lawyer and the prosecutor regarding what charges should be dropped or reduced as well as what type of sentencing reductions may be available. After these details have been negotiated, you must decide whether you want to accept this offer from the prosecution before entering your final plea in court. Once this has been done, any further proceedings are handled according to whatever terms have been agreed upon by both parties.
How Jetton & Meredith, PLLC Can Help
The experienced criminal defense attorneys at Jetton & Meredith, PLLC understand how difficult and stressful it can be to face criminal charges. We are committed to providing you with quality legal representation as well as the information you need to make informed decisions about your legal situation. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys will help evaluate your case and determine whether a plea bargain is beneficial for you in order to get the best possible outcome.
Contact us online or call us at (704) 931-5535 to schedule a consultation so that we can discuss the details of your case.