Many people who are facing trial for a criminal offense will be offered a plea bargain (deal) from the prosecutor and will want to talk it over with Criminal Defense Attorneys in Mesa AZ. The defendant may be reminded of the highest possible consequences that they face in jail time and fines. He or she will be told that if they plead guilty instead of going to trial, they will serve less time or be released on probation. Deciding on whether or not to take the deal, negotiate for a better deal or take a chance with a jury’s verdict is a critically important and frightening decision.
Why is a Plea Bargain Being Offered?
The simple answer to that is that both prosecutors and court-appointed attorneys have many more cases than they can handle. There aren’t enough courtrooms or judges to allow every case to go to trial. Instead, defendants who can’t make bail wait in overcrowded jails for something to happen with their case. Defendants who are out on bail may be monitored and have their activities severely restricted. All defendants wait and worry about the outcome, the fact that the prosecutor is well aware of.
Should the First Plea Bargain Offered be Accepted?
The easiest and fastest way for a prosecutor to close a case is to have the defendant accept a deal. The prosecutor offers as little as possible. The defendant’s attorney negotiates for reduced charges or to get the case dismissed entirely.
While negotiating a better deal is often possible, it is not always possible. If the prosecutor is convinced that there is a very strong case against the defendant, the offered plea bargain may truly be “take it or leave it.” If the case has attracted a lot of publicity, the prosecutor may welcome a public trial for his or her own reasons and be unwilling to offer any type of plea bargain.
Before accepting or rejecting any plea bargain, discuss it with an experienced criminal attorney. The attorney will have a much better understanding of what is possible and would be best for the client. Don’t accept a bad deal simply to put the matter behind you.
The law firm of Janet R. Feeley L.L.C. works aggressively for the constitutional rights and best interests of their clients. You need a knowledgeable attorney to fight on your side. To contact an experienced attorney, visit .
