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

A plea bargain and a plea agreement in criminal defense law are terms that are often used interchangeably. However, they do have different meanings. A plea bargain is an offer from the prosecutor to the defendant in a criminal case. This offer typically allows the defendant to plead guilty to a less serious offense and/or receive a lighter sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. This agreement is beneficial for both the prosecutor and the defendant because it avoids the expense and inconvenience of a trial. A plea agreement is a written contract between the defendant and the prosecutor that outlines the terms of the deal. It usually includes the charge that is being pleaded to, the sentence that is being recommended, and any other conditions that the prosecutor or defense attorney feel is necessary. It is important to note that in Maryland, a plea agreement cannot be accepted until it is approved by the court. This means that even if the defendant and the prosecutor agree on the terms of the plea agreement, the judge must also approve it before it can be finalized. In summary, the main difference between a plea bargain and a plea agreement is that a plea bargain is an offer from the prosecutor to the defendant whereas a plea agreement is a formal contract that is approved by the court.

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

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