Plea Bargains in the Criminal Justice System and the Importance of Trial Readiness

Most people have heard of plea bargains yet aren’t exactly sure what they are. Plea bargains play an important role in the criminal justice system. This is your inside look at how those unique legal deals work and some common misconceptions.

The Basics of Plea Bargaining

Plea bargains are legal tools that are used as an alternative to trial in order to resolve a case. The prosecutor and defendant agree to a guilty plea to one or several charges. The prosecutor gives ground in the form of concessions.

As an example, prosecutors who offer plea bargains often dangle the following during trial preparation:

? The prospect of a shorter sentence

? Reducing the charge severity

? Dismissing one or multiple of the charges

Such concessions are typically made in jurisdictions with a large number of cases that strain the judicial system’s resources and overarching due process.

To Plea Bargain or not Plea Bargain? That is the Question

The best criminal defense attorneys view plea bargains as a secondary consideration. Elite legal defense teams prepare for trial, ensuring every legal angle is addressed for a comprehensive defense. This is the devoted advocacy and preparation every client deserves.

Though plea bargains are not the default route, they are more common than most assume. Plea bargains alleviate case bottlenecking in the legal system. If plea bargaining weren’t available, too many cases would end up in trial, chewing up the state’s limited prosecutorial resources.

Here at Imhoff & Associates, we approach every case with trial readiness as our guiding principle. Unlike firms prioritizing plea bargains as a primary solution, we do not enter cases looking to settle with a deal. Our flat-rate fee structure reflects our commitment to comprehensive advocacy, ensuring we remain prepared to take a case to trial if that best serves our client’s interests. This approach underscores our dedication to fighting for the best possible outcomes, even through rigorous courtroom advocacy.

Plea Bargain Myths and Misconceptions

Plea bargains are often misrepresented on televised legal dramas that mischaracterize attorney-client relationships and the judicial system as a whole. As an example, there is a common misconception that one cannot appeal a plea bargain after acceptance.

In reality, there is the potential to withdraw or appeal a plea deal before sentencing if it can be shown that opposing counsel failed to meet legal standards. An appeal is also available in the event that new evidence arises.

There is also a common misconception that the plea deal offered is optimal. It is best to think of the initial plea deal offer as the beginning point of a negotiation process. There might be an opportunity to negotiate more favorable terms. An expert attorney will be best positioned to advise you throughout the entire process and remain committed to advocating for your best interests, irrespective of a plea deal.

Schedule Your Consultation

Our team of attorneys is here to help you navigate the legal system in and out of the courtroom. We have a nationwide team of practitioners who embrace the challenges of diverse defense cases spanning the entirety of the nation.

The process begins with a case evaluation. Reach out to us today at (855) 9-DEFENSE to learn more about defendant rights through a complimentary consultation.