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

A plea bargain and a plea agreement are two different terms for two different legal processes that are tied together when it comes to criminal proceedings. A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and the defense in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for some kind of reduced charge or sentence. This kind of agreement is often used to avoid the time and expense of a trial. A plea agreement, on the other hand, is an agreement made between the defendant and the prosecutor as to the details of the plea bargain. It spells out the exact terms of the plea and what the defendant will receive in exchange for their plea. For example, a plea agreement may include details such as the type of sentence the defendant will receive, or any other special conditions such as community service or rehabilitation. In North Carolina, plea bargains and plea agreements are both legal and are commonly used in drug crimes cases. The judge must approve of the agreement before it is finalized and the plea accepted. Ultimately, the plea agreement or plea bargain should be in the best interest of all parties involved, as well as in the best interest of justice.

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

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