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

In Washington State, a plea of guilty and a guilty plea both refer to a defendant’s decision to admit guilt in a drug crime case. However, there is a difference between the two types of pleas. When a defendant pleads “guilty,” they are admitting guilt to the charge and are prepared to accept the court’s punishment. They may do this without the assistance of a lawyer or a plea bargain. This type of plea is often referred to as “open” or “straight” guilty. A “guilty plea” typically occurs when the defendant has negotiated with the prosecutor to have their charges reduced or dropped in exchange for a guilty plea. This type of plea involves the defendant admitting guilt in exchange for receiving a lesser sentence or punishment. This type of plea is also referred to as a “plea bargain” or a “plea agreement.” To summarize, when a defendant pleads “guilty,” they are admitting guilt to the charges and accepting the court’s sentence, while when a defendant pleads “guilty plea,” they are admitting guilt to the charge but are negotiating with the prosecutor to receive a reduced or no sentence. Both pleas are commonly used in drug crime cases in Washington.

Related FAQs

What are the benefits of a drug treatment program?
What is the difference between a jail sentence and a prison sentence?
What are the laws for possession of a drug paraphernalia?
What is the role of the prosecutor in a drug crime case?
What is the sentencing range for drug convictions?
What is the drug trade?
What is the difference between a warrant and an arrest?
What is the difference between a dismissal and a conviction?
What is a drug court?
What is drug diversion?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding Drug Crimes and the Law: A Comprehensive Guide - July 31, 2023
Potential Penalties for Drug Crimes: What You Need to Know - August 7, 2023
A Complete Overview of Drug Crime Defenses - August 14, 2023
Explaining the Burden of Proof in Drug Crime Cases - August 21, 2023
How to Determine the Right Drug Crime Lawyer - August 28, 2023