What is the difference between a plea of not guilty and a plea of nolo contendere?

In criminal cases in California, a plea of not guilty and a plea of nolo contendere are two different ways of responding to criminal charges. When someone pleads not guilty, they are denying the criminal charges and stating that they are innocent. A plea of not guilty triggers a trial before a judge or jury and an opportunity to present evidence in defense of the accused. A plea of nolo contendere, or “no contest,” is a conditional plea that is neither an admission of guilt or innocence. Instead, the defendant agrees to accept the sentence the court imposes and waives their right to a trial. This plea is often used in drug crimes cases when the accused would like to avoid a conviction on their record, but accept the sentence given to them by the court. The primary difference between a plea of not guilty and a plea of nolo contendere then lies in the results for the accused. By pleading not guilty, a defendant can choose to fight the charges and prove their innocence. However, by pleading nolo contendere, the defendant cannot contest their sentence but avoids a conviction on their criminal record.

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What is the difference between a plea of not guilty and a plea of nolo contendere?

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