People accused of criminal offenses often want to defend themselves against the allegations they face. Depending on the charges and the state’s case, there are many different strategies that can help people avoid convictions.
In some cases, the best solution may involve negotiating a plea deal with the prosecutor’s office. A large portion of defendants negotiate plea deals instead of taking their cases to trial. A plea deal or plea bargain is different than simply entering a guilty plea. The defendant hires a lawyer who then negotiates with the prosecutor on their behalf.
Some people feel a knee-jerk aversion to plea bargaining, but it can be beneficial for defendants. How can a plea bargain work out in favor of a person accused of a crime?
By reducing the charges
Prosecutors often try to bring the most serious charges that they can justify, given the circumstances. They may also pursue multiple charges for a single incident involving the defendant. For example, someone facing drug charges might face separate possession charges for the drugs themselves and any paraphernalia they possessed.
A plea deal might result in the prosecution dismissing all but one of the pending charges or reducing a charge to a lesser offense. The defendant then has a less severe criminal record, which makes rebuilding after they serve their sentence a bit easier. Lesser charges and single offenses may also be easier for people to expunge if they are eligible.
By eliminating certain penalties
Frequently, plea bargains focus on a reduction of consequences. The goal is to limit or prevent incarceration or avoid other common penalties associated with a specific criminal charge. Prosecutors have the authority to enter into agreements that influence the sentencing process. People worried about specific penalties may be able to negotiate to avoid them.
Plea bargaining can also be a faster solution than taking the case to trial. People may be able to minimize the attention drawn by their criminal proceedings by pleading guilty and resolving the matter as quickly as possible.
Reviewing pending charges with a criminal defense attorney can help people determine the best strategy. A plea bargain can be a viable response to pending criminal charges.