When you are charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, it can seem like a massive relief when the prosecution offers you a plea deal. This means you would plead guilty in exchange for facing lesser charges or a lighter sentence. However, before you accept any deals, you’ll want to read this blog to learn about the different types of deals, the advantages and disadvantages of accepting, and the importance of working with a Blue Bell criminal defense lawyer to examine your circumstances and provide unique advice tailored to your situation.
Are There Different Types of Plea Deals?
First and foremost, it’s important to understand what a plea bargain is. Essentially, when you are charged with a criminal offense in Pennsylvania, you may be offered a deal by the prosecution. This would require you to plead guilty, but you may have the charges against you reduced, meaning they would be less severe. This is often beneficial for a number of reasons. This not only allows both you and the prosecution to avoid a lengthy and expensive trial, but it also allows you to receive a lighter sentence that may not be implemented if you are convicted, while securing a guilty plea for the prosecution.
As such, there are different types of plea deals that may be offered to you. Most commonly, these are charge bargains and count bargains. A charge bargain agreement essentially allows you to plead guilty to a lesser offense, which in turn can offer a lighter sentence. For example, your felony aggravated assault charge may be reduced to simple assault in exchange for your plea. A count bargain agreement, as the name suggests, allows you to reduce the number of charges against you by agreeing to plead guilty to some of the charges against you, while the others are dropped.
What Should I Do Before Accepting a Plea Deal?
It is imperative to understand that if you are offered a plea bargain, you should, under no circumstances, accept the deal before you have consulted with an experienced attorney. While you may think the deal offered to you is great, an experienced attorney can review the terms and conditions to ensure that they are favorable and reflect your best interest. Additionally, your attorney may advise you against accepting the plea deal if they believe that you have a good chance at receiving a not guilty verdict through a trial.
You should also understand the consequences of accepting a plea deal. While it can help save you considerable time, stress, and money, and you can face a lighter sentence, accepting a deal means that you will be convicted of a criminal offense. As such, it can impact your ability to vote, be approved for housing, obtain employment, and even your ability to carry a firearm.
As such, if you are facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced defense attorney to help you explore your options to determine whether or not accepting a plea deal is right for you. At Mudrick & Zucker, P.C., we understand that these matters can be incredibly complex, which is why we will do everything possible to help you fight for the best outcome for your circumstances. Contact us today to learn more.
