Understanding Plea Bargains: Making Informed Decisions in Criminal Cases

When facing criminal charges, the urge to quickly resolve the case and move forward can be strong. However, take a pause and fully understand the concept of plea bargains before making any decisions. While plea bargains can have their benefits, be sure to make informed decisions before accepting one. At the Law Office of William Bruzzo, we believe in empowering our clients by providing them with all the necessary information and guidance to make the best choices. As an Orange County criminal defense lawyer, plea bargaining is a common part of the work we do in advocating for clients.

Plea Bargaining 101

Plea bargaining has become the most common way that criminal cases are resolved in the United States. In fact, nearly 98% of federal convictions and about 95% of state convictions are the result of plea bargains. In fact, in some states, the rate of criminal cases going to trial is s low as 3%. According to NPR.org, in one county in Arizona, there were no criminal trials from 2010 to 2012. Minorities should also consider that they often receive less generous plea deal offers than whites. Additionally, many innocent people take plea bargains out of fear of the criminal justice system failing them, according to the Innocence Project. Finally, so much plea bargaining allows police misconduct to escape scrutiny as it never comes to light in open court.

The process of plea bargaining allows both the defendant and the prosecution to reach an agreement without going to trial. It offers defendants an opportunity to negotiate with the prosecution to either plead guilty to a lesser charge, receive a recommendation for a lighter sentence, or have one or more multiple charges dropped.

Recommending a Lighter Sentence

One type of plea bargain is when the prosecution agrees to recommend a lighter sentence in exchange for the defendant’s guilty plea. This means that if the defendant accepts the deal and pleads guilty, the prosecution will advocate for a reduced sentence during the sentencing phase of the case. This can be a significant advantage for the defendant as it may result in a less severe punishment than if they had gone to trial and been found guilty. However, be aware that the judge ultimately has the final say in sentencing and may or may not follow the prosecution’s recommendation.

Dropping Multiple Charges

In some cases, a plea bargain may involve the prosecution dropping one or more of the charges against the defendant in exchange for their guilty plea. This can be beneficial for the defendant as it reduces the number of charges they are facing, which in turn may lead to a less severe overall sentence. Fully discuss this with an experienced, knowledgeable Orange County criminal defense attorney to thoroughly understand the implications of having charges dropped and how it can impact your specific case.

Pleading Guilty to a Lesser Charge

Another common type of plea bargain is pleading guilty to a lesser charge. This occurs when the defendant agrees to admit guilt for a less serious offense than the one they were initially charged with. By doing so, the defendant receives a more lenient sentence. For example, if someone is charged with burglary, they may have the option to plead guilty to trespassing instead, which could result in a less severe penalty. Evaluate the potential consequences carefully and consult with a knowledgeable, trustworthy Orange County criminal defense attorney to understand the impact of pleading guilty to a lesser charge.

Other Creative Plea Deals

While pleading guilty to a lesser charge, receiving a recommendation for a lighter sentence, or having charges dropped are common types of plea bargains, there are also an infinite supply of other creative plea deals that can be negotiated. These deals can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the negotiation skills of the attorneys involved. Some examples include community service, restitution, substance abuse treatment programs, or probation. 

How to Make the Right Decision: Trial or Negotiating a Deal?

Determining whether to go to trial or negotiate a plea deal is a life-altering decision that should be made with careful consideration. There are several factors to assess when making this decision, such as the strength of the evidence against you, potential defenses, the likelihood of success at trial, and the potential consequences of a conviction. 

Going to trial means presenting your case in court and allowing a judge or jury to decide your guilt or innocence. This option is appropriate when you believe in your innocence and have a strong defense or when you want to challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution. However, remember that trials are typically lengthy, expensive, and unpredictable.

On the other hand, negotiating a plea deal can offer several advantages. It can result in reduced charges, lighter sentences, or other favorable outcomes. Accepting a plea deal also means avoiding the uncertainty and potential harsher consequences of going to trial. However, if you accept a deal, be sure to fully understand the terms of the plea bargain and its potential consequences before accepting.

As an Orange County criminal defense lawyer, the Law Office of William Bruzzo understands the intricacies of negotiating plea deals and the importance of empowering you so you can make an informed decision. We will guide you through the process, explain your options, and advocate for your best interests. Whether you choose to go to trial or opt for a plea deal, William Bruzzo is fully capable of providing you with the support and legal representation you need.

Ask an Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney Now!

If you’re facing criminal charges anywhere from Corona to Newport Beach in California, you’ll no doubt want to find the best Orange County criminal defense lawyer possible by your side. The Law Office of William Bruzzo is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation to clients in the Orange County area and helping you survive the complexities of the criminal justice system. Our legal team is well-versed in plea bargaining and can guide you through the decision-making process, ensuring you make the best choice for your case. To schedule a free case review or learn your options, contact us now.