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

A trial and a plea bargain are both options that a person facing criminal charges in Mississippi may choose when it comes to their criminal defense. However, there are significant differences between the two. When a person decides to go to trial, a jury of their peers will hear evidence presented by both the defense and prosecution. The jury will then decide on a verdict of guilt or innocence, and the defendant can be convicted and sentenced based upon that verdict. A plea bargain is an agreement between the defendant and the prosecuting attorney usually offered before or during a trial. In this process, the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser offense or to several offenses in exchange for a more lenient sentence, or in some cases, a reduction in the charges. In both the trial and plea bargain processes, the defendant has the right to an attorney, and may choose to represent themselves if they so choose. The main difference between the two is the outcome of the trial. In a trial, the verdict of innocent or guilty is decided by a jury, while in a plea bargain, the outcome is determined by the defendant in cooperation with the prosecutor.

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

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