plea bargain

When and When You Should Not to Take a Plea Bargain

A plea bargain is an arrangement made between the prosecution and defendant in a criminal case. It is an agreement where the defendant agrees to plead guilty or not contest a charge in exchange for a reduced sentence or other concessions from the prosecution. Judges in Boston are known to be tough on crime, so it’s important to understand when you should and should not take a plea bargain. Take it from one of our criminal defense attorneys. Here are moments when you should and shouldn’t take one:

When To

  • When the evidence is strong: If it is against you, a plea bargain may be in your best interest. You can negotiate a reduced sentence or avoid a more serious charge by pleading guilty or no contest.

 

  • When the crime is serious: If you face serious criminal charges, such as a felony, it may be best to take a plea bargain. A plea bargain can help you avoid a lengthy trial and potentially harsher penalties.

 

  • When the prosecution has a strong case: If the prosecution has a strong case against you, it could be in your best interest to take a plea bargain. Doing so can avoid a lengthy trial and potentially harsher penalties.

 

  • When you want to avoid a trial: If you want to avoid a trial, taking a plea bargain may be a good option. Trials can be lengthy, stressful, and expensive. By taking a plea bargain, you can avoid the uncertainty of a trial and potentially receive a reduced sentence. Always talk to your criminal defense attorney about this strategy.

When Not To

  • When you are innocent: If you are innocent of the charges against you, you should not take a plea bargain. Pleading guilty or no contest can have serious consequences, including a criminal record and potential incarceration. It’s important to assert your innocence and fight the charges against you.

 

  • When the evidence is weak: If it is against you, taking a plea bargain may not be in your best interest. You can get the case dismissed or receive a not-guilty verdict by fighting the charges.

 

  • When you want to protect your rights: If you want to protect your constitutional rights, you may not want to take a plea bargain. Pleading guilty or no contest can waive some of your rights, such as the right to a trial by jury and the right to remain silent.

 

  • When you want to maintain your innocence: If you want to maintain your innocence, you should not take a plea bargain. Pleading guilty or no contest can be viewed as an admission of guilt, which can have serious consequences.

In Closing

Taking a plea bargain in Boston can be a complicated decision, so consider the advantages and disadvantages carefully and consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. If you are not guilty of the charges against you or the evidence against you is weak, a plea bargain may not be in your best interest. 

However, a plea bargain may be a good option if the evidence against you is strong or you face serious criminal charges. Ultimately, the decision to take a plea bargain should be based on your best interest and what will help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Let Frank Fernandez Guide You on Whether or Not to Take a Plea Bargain

Frank Fernandez is a Boston criminal lawyer admitted to practice law in Massachusetts, Illinois, Missouri, and the United States District Court of Massachusetts. He has previously worked as a District Attorney in St. Louis and is an industry expert in criminal law, specializing in all types of criminal defense. Frank has been lead counsel on numerous trials in both State and Federal Courts. Get your free consultation from a seasoned Boston criminal defense attorney by calling +1 (617) 393-0250 right now!