What is the difference between a trial and a plea bargain in criminal defense law?

The difference between a trial and a plea bargain in criminal defense law in Massachusetts is significant. In a trial, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty of the crime they are charged with. The defendant’s attorney may present evidence in their client’s defense. The jury, or in some cases a judge, will then issue a verdict based on this evidence. A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and the defense in which the defendant pleads guilty to a reduced charge in exchange for a lighter sentence. This means that the defendant agrees that they did commit a crime, but they plead guilty to a lesser charge and receive a sentence that has been negotiated in advance. This means that the case will never go to trial. In a trial, the defendant maintains their innocence and the prosecution must prove them guilty. In a plea bargain, the defendant pleads guilty in exchange for a lighter sentence. In either case, the best option is to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney before making any decisions.

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What is the difference between a trial and a plea bargain in criminal defense law?

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