If you are facing a criminal charge in Dallas, Fort Worth, or Plano, you may be wondering if you should take a plea deal or fight the charge. The criminal court system can be overwhelming, especially if this is your first time facing a criminal charge. Prosecutors often pressure defendants into accepting plea deals, even when the defendant is innocent and when the prosecutor does not have a solid case against him or her. In this article, we will examine some of the benefits and drawbacks of accepting a plea deal in Texas.
What is a Plea Deal?
A plea deal, also called a plea bargain, is a contract between you as the defendant and the prosecutor. The prosecutor promises to reduce the penalties of the crime with which you are charged if you promise to plead guilty to the crime. The promise of a reduced sentence can be appealing, but plea deals are not always the defendant’s best option.
When is Accepting a Plea Bargain a Good Idea?
There are a few different scenarios in which accepting a plea deal is a defendant’s best option. When the prosecutor has a solid case, it could be in your best interest to accept a plea deal. There are multiple factors defendant should consider before they accept a plea deal:
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What type of evidence does the prosecutor have that connects you to the crime?
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Did the law enforcement officers legally obtain the evidence against you?
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Do the witness testimony and evidence show that you committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt?
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What kind of defenses can you raise?
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How has the judge who is assigned to your case ruled in similar cases?
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Are you willing to undergo a public criminal trial that can involve potentially embarrassing allegations?
You Can Negotiate Your Plea Deal
Many people who face criminal charges are not aware that they can negotiate the terms of their plea deal with the prosecution. In other words, you do not have to accept the plea deal as it is presented to you by the prosecutors. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will be able to negotiate with the prosecution assertively. Your lawyer may be able to help you obtain an even better plea deal, especially when you show remorse for your crime and make a good impression on the judge.
If there is evidence that shows you are unlikely to commit a crime again, the prosecutor may be willing to offer an even better plea deal. However, if you are innocent and the prosecution does not have a good case with compelling evidence against you, it may be in your best interest to reject the plea deal altogether.
Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are unsure whether or not to accept a plea deal in Texas, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. Attorney Christopher Abel has extensive experience negotiating favorable plea deals on behalf of his clients. He will review the facts of your case and help you determine your best legal option. Contact him today to schedule your initial consultation.