Plea Bargains: A Look at the Pros and Cons

What is a Plea Bargain?

A plea bargain is an agreement between a prosecutor and a defendant in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a more lenient sentence.

How Plea Bargains Work

Plea bargains are typically negotiated between the prosecutor and the defendant's attorney. The prosecutor will offer the defendant a plea deal that includes a reduced charge and a lighter sentence. The defendant can then choose to accept or reject the plea deal.

If the defendant accepts the plea deal, the court will enter a judgment of guilt and sentence the defendant according to the terms of the plea agreement.

The Pros and Cons of Plea Bargains

Plea bargains can have both benefits and drawbacks for both the defendant and the prosecution.

Benefits of Plea Bargains

• Can result in a reduced charge and a lighter sentence
• Can save time and money by avoiding a trial
• Can provide certainty to the defendant by knowing what the outcome of their case will be

Drawbacks of Plea Bargains

• Can result in the defendant pleading guilty to a crime they did not commit
• Can limit the defendant's ability to appeal their conviction
• Can create the perception that the justice system is unfair

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to accept a plea bargain is a complex one that should be made in consultation with an attorney.