What is plea bargaining in criminal defense law?

Plea bargaining in criminal defense law is a legal process in which a defendant and the prosecutor agree to a plea deal instead of taking the case to trial. This process is an agreement between the defendant and the State in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty or no contest to a crime in exchange for a sentence that is lesser than what they would have received if they had gone to trial. In Florida, plea bargaining is an essential component of the criminal justice system, as it helps to reduce the burden on the state of having to prosecute hundreds or thousands of cases. In exchange for a lighter sentence, the defendant often waives their right to a trial. Plea bargaining helps to bring closure to cases more quickly, reducing the amount of time defendants spend in jail awaiting trial. It also keeps courtrooms from becoming overcrowded with cases. Ultimately, plea bargaining is beneficial when all parties involved are able to come to an agreement that is in the best interests of the defendant and the state.

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What is plea bargaining in criminal defense law?

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