Individuals facing criminal charges, including white-collar criminal offenses, are often eager to prove their innocence. Taking a case to trial can lead to exoneration and can protect defendants from the impact of a criminal record, as well as the penalties that the courts can impose after a conviction.
Many criminal defendants evaluate their situations with their attorneys and eventually decide to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution instead of going to trial. A large percentage of criminal cases end in plea bargains rather than trials.
What motivates so many criminal defendants to negotiate with the state?
1. Reduced charges
Prosecutors frequently bring multiple charges over singular incidents. They may pursue felony charges whenever possible. Plea bargains allow for the reduction of a felony to a misdemeanor or the dismissal of secondary charges.
2. Reduced penalties
Prosecutors often agree to make concessions regarding the possible sentence for a defendant in exchange for a guilty plea. An attorney may be able to negotiate to take jail time off the table or to significantly reduce the maximum sentence imposed.
3. Enhanced privacy
Every detail shared during a criminal trial becomes part of the public record. Those concerned about their privacy may find that plea bargaining can help them limit how much information becomes public record due to the presentation of evidence in court.
Criminal defendants may want to discuss all of their options with a lawyer before settling on a specific strategy. Negotiating a plea bargain is a reasonable solution for many people facing criminal charges who want to resolve matters as quickly and quietly as possible, although it is not the best way forward for everyone.