pleading no contest

Should I Plead Guilty? Reasons for Taking a Plea Bargain

August 14, 2013

In some criminal cases, the defendant may be offered a plea deal at some point in the proceedings. Also known as a plea bargain, this offer is essentially an agreement between the judge or prosecution and the defendant to reach an amicable arrangement. Usually, the arrangement involves the defendant entering a guilty plea concerning a certain charge in exchange for favorable treatment during the sentencing phase.

Plea bargains in Texas are relatively common. There are several reasons for this, but simple economics is the most apparent cause. It takes a lot of money, time and resources to conduct criminal trials. Plea deals are a way of expediting the judicial process while ensuring that justice is served.