What is a Plea Bargain?A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and the defense in which the prosecution offers to drop or reduce some charges, or to recommend a certain sentence to the judge in exchange for a plea of guilty or no contest from the defendant. When Can You Enter into a Plea Bargain?Typically, you can enter into a plea bargain any time from the moment you are arrested, to the moment before a verdict is read. However, some states have laws that regulate when and how you can enter a plea bargain. These laws vary from state to state. What are the Benefits of a Plea Bargain?Some of the advantages of plea bargaining include: - Having a less serious offense on your record
- Receiving a less severe sentence than you might receive in trial
- Resolving the matter quickly
- Avoiding a messy trial that could potentially harm your reputation
What Happens if the Prosecution Goes Back on the Plea Bargain?If the prosecutor breaks the plea bargain you may be able to get the judge to set your plea aside, or you may be able to get a court order requiring the prosecutor to respect the plea bargain. What Happens if I Go Back on the Plea Bargain?If you do not adhere to the agreement, the prosecutor will probably revoke the plea bargain and be unwilling to offer you any other deals. |
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