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

A plea bargain and a plea agreement are two different legal terms, but there are some similarities between them. In the context of drug crimes laws in Kansas, both terms refer to an agreement between the prosecuting attorney and the defendant in a criminal case, where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to lesser charges in exchange for a reduced sentence. The difference between a plea bargain and a plea agreement lies in the specifics of what is agreed upon. A plea bargain typically outlines an agreement between the prosecutor and defense that involves a guilty plea for a lesser charge in exchange for a reduced sentence. In other words, the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a charge that carries a lesser punishment than the original charge. In contrast, a plea agreement is a more formal, usually written, agreement between the parties that is signed by them all. This agreement outlines all the terms of the plea bargain, including exactly what charges the defendant has agreed to plead guilty to, the length of the sentence, and any other requirements or restrictions. A plea agreement is thus a much more comprehensive agreement that provides greater detail and is legally binding.

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