How Plea Bargains Work
If you’re facing criminal charges, you should be able to take some solace in the fact that most such cases are resolved away from the court room through plea bargaining. In this entry, we’ll talk about the different types of plea bargains.
What is a Plea Bargain?
Simply put, a plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecutor and defendant (you) that results in a lesser charge or sentence. The plea bargains are generally the result of both sides looking at the case’s strengths and weaknesses from their own points of view. The usual justifications for plea bargains include:
- Overcrowded courts
- Too many cases already on the hands of the prosecutor, which means fewer can be effectively prosecuted
- The ability for the defendant (you) to save money in your defense
Types of Plea Bargains
There are generally three (3) types of plea bargains utilized in the U.S. legal system.
- Charge Bargaining The defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge that’s not quite as severe as the original.
- Sentence Bargaining The prosecution – working with the defendant – recommends to the judge a lighter sentence.
- Fact Bargaining In order to avoid a longer sentence, the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for the prosecutor ignoring certain facts or aspects of the case that would lead to a longer sentence.
Difficult to Overturn
Once all parties – including the judge – agree to the plea bargain, you as the defendant have essentially surrendered your rights to appeal.
Facing Criminal Charges? Call The Oswalt Law Group
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offense, there’s no doubt about it: you need legal representation. Get in touch with us here at The Oswalt Law Group. We’ll work diligently and aggressively to have your charges reduced or tossed out altogether. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 602-225-2222.