Defendants facing criminal charges have several options available to them. They can work with a defense attorney to suppress evidence and pursue the dismissal of the charges against them. They can develop a thorough trial strategy that might highlight issues with the state’s evidence or provide strong indications that the person at fault was actually someone else entirely.
In many cases, however, the best option available might be to negotiate a plea bargain. This process generally requires the advocacy of a criminal defense attorney. Why do many defendants who want to fight their criminal charges agree to a plea bargain instead of going to trial?
A faster resolution
The stress of criminal prosecution can affect a person’s health and relationships. The longer the case drags on, the greater the impact it may have on the defendant’s overall life and finances. Negotiating a plea bargain can facilitate a much faster end to the criminal justice process.
Reduced charges
Prosecutors often bring multiple charges if they can justify them and may pursue felony charges whenever possible. Plea bargains often involve arrangements to reduce the charges or dismiss secondary charges with a plea only entered for one primary offense.
Limiting penalties
Prosecutors have the authority to take certain criminal penalties off the table. They may agree to recommend probation instead of incarceration if a defendant pleads guilty, for example.
Reviewing one’s charges and the state’s evidence with a criminal defense attorney can help people evaluate different defense strategies. Plea bargains can be helpful in many cases for those who want to resolve their matters quickly or who face charges backed by robust evidence.