What is the process of plea-bargaining in criminal cases?

Plea bargaining is a common practice in criminal cases in Arizona. It is the process of negotiating a deal between the defense and the prosecution in a criminal case. The defendant, through their defense attorney, negotiates with the prosecutor to reach an agreement that results in the defendant pleading guilty to a reduced charge or receiving a lighter sentence in exchange for their plea. To begin the plea bargaining process, the defense attorney must request a plea offer from the prosecutor. If the prosecutor does not submit a plea offer, then the defense attorney begins to negotiate an agreement by providing evidence that may help persuade the prosecutor to provide a favorable plea arrangement. Depending on the severity of the crime, the prosecutor may offer a plea bargain with a reduced charge or a lighter sentence. After the plea offer is made, the defense attorney will discuss the plea offer with their client and explain the likely outcome of taking the plea offer versus going to trial. If the defendant agrees to the plea bargain, the defense attorney and the prosecutor will complete the necessary documents for the court to accept the plea agreement. The defendant must enter a guilty plea in front of the court in order for the plea bargain agreement to be implemented. The plea bargain will not be accepted by the court if the defendant does not enter a guilty plea. The judge may also reject the plea agreement if it is unjust or if the court does not believe it is in the best interest of the defendant.

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What is the process of plea-bargaining in criminal cases?

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