Plea Bargain

In one sentence

A negotiated agreement where a defendant pleads guilty in exchange for reduced charges or sentencing.

Plain English

A plea bargain is a deal between the defendant and the prosecutor where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to certain charges, usually in exchange for the prosecutor dropping other charges or recommending a lighter sentence. This avoids a trial and gives both sides a predictable outcome. The judge must approve the plea bargain, and the defendant gives up the right to a trial.

Ad slot

Example

A defendant charged with both robbery and assault agrees to plead guilty to assault in exchange for the prosecutor dropping the robbery charge and recommending probation instead of prison.

Used in a sentence

“The defendant accepted a plea bargain that reduced his charges from felony to misdemeanor.”

Related terms

acquittal

A court decision that a defendant is not guilty of the charges.

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

The highest standard of proof required to convict a defendant in a criminal trial.

enhanced sentencing

A longer or harsher sentence imposed when certain aggravating factors or prior convictions are present.

dangerousness

A person's likelihood of committing future crimes or harming others, used in bail and sentencing decisions.

Defense Attorney

A lawyer who represents a person accused of a crime in court.

Stand Your Ground

A law allowing a person to use force, including deadly force, to defend themselves without a duty to retreat.

Castle Doctrine

A law stating that a person's home is their castle and they can use force to defend it without duty to retreat.

Expungement

A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.