What are the consequences of a plea of guilty or no contest?

If you plead guilty or no contest to a drug crime in California, you face serious consequences, including jail time and hefty fines. A plea of guilty means you are admitting to the charges in the criminal case against you. When this happens, the judge will enter a guilty verdict and the court will proceed to sentencing. Depending on the severity of the offense, you could be sentenced to anything from probation and community service to a long prison sentence. Depending on the exact type of drug crime, you may also come with a hefty fine. No contest, also known as a Nolo Contendere plea, means that you are not admitting guilt but are waiving your right to a trial. This also comes with a guilty verdict and sentencing by the judge. This plea is often used when the defendant is unsure of their chance at winning at trial. Even though you are not actually admitting guilt, you will still be judged according to the same standards as someone who pleaded guilty and receive the same punishments. It is in your best interests to consult a criminal defense attorney for specific advice about drug crime cases in California. A plea of guilty or no contest can have severe consequences, so make sure you are informed about your rights and what you are pleading to.

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What are the consequences of a plea of guilty or no contest?

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