When facing criminal charges in Medford, OR, many defendants are presented with the option of taking a plea bargain. A plea bargain is an agreement between the defendant and the prosecutor that involves the defendant pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence. While plea bargains are often beneficial to the defendant, there are many factors to consider before accepting one.
What Is a Plea Bargain?
A plea bargain is an agreement between the defendant and the prosecutor that involves the defendant pleading guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence. This agreement is usually the result of negotiations between the two parties and is meant to benefit both sides.
For the defendant, a plea bargain can result in a lighter sentence than they would have received if they had gone to trial and been found guilty of the original charge. It can also reduce the risk of a harsher sentence if the defendant is found guilty at trial. For the prosecutor, a plea bargain can reduce the amount of time and money it takes to prosecute a case, as well as reduce the risk of an acquittal.
When Should I Consider a Plea Bargain?
When deciding whether to accept a plea bargain, it is important to consider the evidence against you, the potential sentence if you are found guilty at trial, and the terms of the plea bargain. If the evidence against you is strong and the potential sentence, if you are found guilty at trial, is significantly higher than the sentence offered in the plea bargain, then it may be in your best interest to accept the plea bargain. If the evidence against you is weak or the potential sentence, if you are found guilty at trial, is not significantly higher than the sentence offered in the plea bargain, then it may be in your best interest to go to trial.What Are the Risks of Accepting a Plea Bargain?
When accepting a plea bargain, it is important to understand the risks associated with it. The most significant risk is that the defendant may be admitting guilt for a crime they did not commit. By pleading guilty, the defendant is waiving their right to a trial and the opportunity to present their case. Another risk is that the defendant may not be aware of all the potential consequences of their plea. For example, if the defendant pleads guilty to a felony, they may not be aware they could lose their right to vote or own a firearm. Finally, the defendant may not be aware of all the potential defenses they could use at trial. For example, they may not be aware of the possibility of an insanity defense or self-defense.How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help?
When deciding whether or not to accept a plea bargain, it is important to consult with a criminal defense lawyer. A criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the evidence against you, the potential sentence if you are found guilty at trial, and the terms of the plea bargain. They can also help you understand the potential risks of accepting a plea bargain and the potential defenses you could use at trial.
At The Law Office of Justin Rosas, our experienced criminal defense lawyers have extensive experience with plea bargains and can help you make the best decision for your case. We understand the complexities of criminal law and can help you understand the potential consequences of your plea. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.