When should you plead guilty?

On Behalf of | Feb 19, 2017 | Drunk Driving Charges

Pleading guilty is a viable strategy for certain people. It all depends on the circumstances of your arrest, your prior criminal record, and the nature of the charges pending against you. If you plead guilty, the prosecutor will typically agree to remove some charges and to lessen the sentence. Depending on when you plead guilty, the prosecutor may even take prison or a felony charge off the table. Therefore, when to plead guilty is just as important as whether or not you should. This post will go over some of the strategies that may impact your decision.

Pleading guilty means that you will not contest the charges brought against you. It does not, however, mean that you are confessing and admitting to committing the alleged crimes (the distinction is faint but important).

Concerning DUIs, many prosecutors will allow people to transfer into “DUI Diversion Programs” which are alternatives to criminal punishment. The diversion program is designed to help people control their drinking through a combination of classes, group therapy, and one-on-one work. But these programs are a privilege, not a right, so many prosecutors will require you to plead guilty.

If you are charged with a crime, you may want to retain a defense attorney. Depending on the nature of your charges, the consequences could be severe and may substantially impact your future livelihood. A defense attorney can go over the charges and evidence arrayed against you to assist you in determining the best strategy. Maybe you plead guilty, maybe you plead nolo contendere, or perhaps you take the prosecutor to task and go to trial. Regardless of what you choose, a defense attorney can advise you of the pros and cons of each strategy.

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Charles Waechter | Lawyer.com Premium
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