What is the difference between a plea of guilty and a plea of nolo contendere?

A plea of guilty and a plea of nolo contendere are two different ways of responding to a criminal charge. When someone pleads guilty, they are admitting to the charge and taking responsibility for their actions. A plea of nolo contendere, on the other hand, is essentially a plea of no contest. This means the accused is neither admitting nor denying guilt, but they are willing to accept the consequences of the charge. In Massachusetts, a plea of guilty or nolo contendere can only be accepted by a court if the defendant is aware of all the rights they are giving up by entering such a plea. Additionally, the accused must understand the nature of the charge and the potential sentence they could face if convicted. The main difference between a plea of guilty and nolo contendere is the effect each plea has on the outcome of the case. A plea of guilty will usually result in the accused being convicted, and they will face whatever sentence the court deems appropriate for the crime. A plea of nolo contendere, on the other hand, does not result in a conviction and might result in a lesser sentence. However, it is important to note that in some cases, the final sentence may be the same regardless of which plea is entered. It is important to consult with an experienced defense attorney before entering any type of plea in a drug crime case. An attorney can provide advice and help ensure the accused’s rights are protected.

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What is the difference between a plea of guilty and a plea of nolo contendere?

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