What is the difference between a plea and a plea bargain?

A plea is when a defendant in a criminal case enters a statement of guilt in court. This can happen when evidence is presented that is too strong for them to dispute, or when a defendant opts to end the legal process before it goes to trial. A plea bargaining is an agreement that is made between the defense and prosecution to have the defendant plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence or other consideration. For example, in a drug crime case in Washington, the defendant may be charged with a felony, such as delivery or possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver. If a plea bargain is accepted, the defendant may plead guilty to a lesser charge, such as simple possession of a controlled substance. In this case, the defendant would receive a reduced sentence in exchange for their plea. Plea bargains are used to help reduce prison overcrowding, save taxpayer money, and help the defendant avoid a more serious sentence. They can also help the prosecution expedite cases and avoid costly trials, as pleas help avoid the uncertain outcomes of a trial and ensure a conviction. In short, a plea is a statement of guilt in a criminal case, while a plea bargain is an agreement between the defense and prosecution that enables the defendant to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence or other consideration.

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What is the difference between a plea and a plea bargain?

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