Plea Bargains in St. Louis: The Basics
n St. Louis and beyond, plea bargains have become a common practice in the criminal justice system. But what exactly are plea bargains, should you accept such a “deal,” and how can they affect your case? If you or someone you know has been charged with a Missouri or federal crime, it is crucial to understand the ins and outs of plea bargains. At Bruntrager & Billings, our talented team of St. Louis criminal defense attorneys is dedicated to helping people like you fight for the best possible outcome. Let us protect your rights and interests.
What Are Plea Bargains?
Plea bargains, or, as they are also known, plea deals, are agreements made between the prosecutor and the defendant, typically negotiated by their respective lawyers. In a plea bargain, the defendant agrees to plead guilty or no contest to a lesser charge or to one or more charges in exchange for certain concessions from the prosecution. These concessions can include reduced charges, lesser sentences, or dropping certain charges altogether. Plea deals aim to streamline the criminal justice system by resolving cases without going to trial.
Benefits of Plea Bargains
Plea bargains can offer several benefits to defendants. Firstly, they provide the opportunity to avoid the uncertainty and potentially harsher sentences that can result from going to trial. By accepting a plea bargain, defendants can often secure a more favorable, certain outcome and potentially receive a shorter sentence. Additionally, plea deals can save defendants time and money by avoiding the lengthy and costly process of a trial. Note that each case is unique, and the benefits of a plea bargain should be assessed on an individual basis.
Factors to Consider
When considering a plea bargain, you’ll be relying heavily on the experience, instincts, and negotiating skills of your attorney. Having the right St. Louis criminal defense lawyer to handle the offers from the prosecution makes a world of difference towards your outcome. As your legal advocate, Bruntrager & Billings can evaluate your case, assess the strength of the evidence against you, and provide guidance on whether accepting a plea deal is in your best interest. In our experience, some factors to consider when evaluating a plea bargain offer include:
- Strength of the evidence
- Potential sentences
- Collateral consequences
- Prior criminal history
The Plea Bargain Process
As St. Louis criminal defense lawyers, the plea deal process we see typically involves the following steps:
- Investigation and evaluation of your case, criminal history, and so on
- Negotiations with the prosecution
- Review and acceptance of the plea offer
- Court approval—a judge must sign off on the plea bargain
A St. Louis Criminal Defense Attorney Ready to Deal
Navigating plea bargains can be daunting without proper legal representation—you will definitely be an underdog. At Bruntrager & Billings, our reliable team of St. Louis criminal defense lawyers is here to guide you through the process and fight for the best possible outcome. We understand the stakes involved in criminal cases and are committed to protecting your rights and interests. Speak to one of our caring attorneys today by sending us a quick message.