If you have ever had to attend court in order to prove your innocence, you know how much your appearance and attitude can impact the proceedings. Unfortunately, all too many people misinterpret how they should dress and what they should do in court, which is why I decided to make this blog. This website is all about creating a great impression in court and understanding how to present yourself to the judge and jury. After all, you might be trying to defend your innocence to avoid potential jail time. Check out this blog for great tips that could help you to protect your freedom.
A plea bargain is an arrangement you make with a prosecutor so that you accept a reduced charge and get a more lenient sentence. A plea bargain offer may look attractive, but you shouldn't accept it without careful analysis. In particular, ask yourself these three questions and use your answers to make a decision:
Have You Talked to the Attorney?
You should never get involved in a plea bargain process without your lawyer's input. Even if the prosecution approaches you with what looks like a good offer, wait for your attorney's advice before accepting it. With your limited legal knowledge, it's not easy to tell whether or not you are getting a good deal.
The only way to know the value of the deal is to consult an attorney. Here are some of the things your lawyer can do concerning your plea bargain:
Do You Mind Having a Criminal Record?
One of the foremost disadvantages of accepting a plea bargaining is that it gives you a criminal record. Sure, the charge and punishment may be reduced, but it is still a guilty charge just like the one you would get if you went to trial and lost. Therefore, evaluate your personal convictions and determine whether you abhor having a criminal record to the point where you would rather defend yourself in court than accept a plea bargain. Of course, this is only important if you (and your attorney) are convinced that you have a high chance of winning.
Which Crime Have You Been Charged With?
This is important because there are some crimes that attract higher condemnation from the society than others. Some of these crimes, such as sexual crimes, also have highly undesirable and long-term consequences. For example, the authorities will register you as a sex offender if you are convicted of sexual abuse. If you are facing such a charge, then it's in your best interest to do everything possible, including plea bargaining, to reduce the severity of your charges.
The common theme in these three questions is the need to analyze your case before pleading guilty to a reduced charge. Even if you have been jointly charged with another person, and he or she has accepted such a deal, you should only consider your situations. This is one of the reasons it pays to consult a defense lawyer, like those at Begley Carlin & Mandio LLP, as soon as you are arrested.
Share14 October 2015