The Advantages and Drawbacks of a Plea Bargain
Not all criminal cases go to trial or are resolved with a jury’s verdict. In many instances, the accused may accept a plea bargain. Plea bargaining occurs when the prosecution and the defense negotiate a resolution that removes the need for a trial. The prosecution may offer to reduce the charges in exchange for the accused’s guilty plea, or they may recommend a lighter sentence even if the defendant planned to plead guilty.
Not all plea deals are right for defendants. While it may be easy to see the advantages, there are also drawbacks to be aware of. Below, one of our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers explains further.
What are the Advantages of a Plea Bargain?
There are many advantages of a plea bargain, both for defendants and for the judicial system. These include:
- Predictability: There is always an element of unpredictability that comes with a jury’s verdict or a judge’s decision. Defendants know what is involved in a plea bargain and so, they are much more predictable.
- Lighter sentences: One of the biggest benefits for defendants is the potential to receive a reduced sentence. Pleading guilty to a less serious offense, receiving a recommendation for a lighter sentence, or coming to some other agreement as to your sentence can greatly limit incarceration time, or in some cases, avoid incarceration entirely.
- Faster case resolution: Criminal trials can take months, and possibly even years before they are resolved. Plea bargaining expedites the process and allows defendants to move forward sooner.
- Less costly: Trials are just as expensive as they are time-consuming. They require a significant amount of preparation, including contacting witnesses, organizing evidence, creating demonstrative exhibits, and attending days of testimony and hearings. A plea bargain can help defendants save on legal expenses, including attorney fees.
Accepting a plea in any case is a serious decision. Your lawyer can help you determine if it’s the right move for you in your particular case or whether you should push your case to trial.
Our Criminal Defense Lawyers in Fort Lauderdale Can Advise On Plea Deals
Accepting a plea in any case is a serious decision. Your lawyer can help you determine if it’s the right move for you in your particular case or whether you should push your case to trial.
At Haber Blank, our Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyers can advise on whether a deal protects your rights, the outcomes you will face, and if one is right for you. Call us now at 954-767-0300 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
Source:
law.cornell.edu/wex/plea_bargain
