What is a plea bargain in a federal criminal case?

A plea bargain in a federal criminal case is an agreement between the prosecution and the defendant that allows the defendant to plead guilty to a lesser charge or receive a reduced sentence in exchange for admitting guilt to the original charge. This agreement is beneficial to both parties as it allows the defendant to avoid the risk and expense of a trial while saving the prosecutor the cost and effort of a lengthy trial. The defendant will typically receive a lesser sentence than they would normally receive if the case went to trial and was found guilty, often including probation or a lesser fine. In Washington, plea bargains are usually offered by prosecutors in exchange for a defendant’s plea of guilty, often when the prosecutor knows that the evidence might be insufficient to win a conviction at trial or when the prosecutor wants to save time, money, and resources. The plea bargain must be accepted by both the defendant and the court before it is approved. It is important to note that the court is not bound to accept the plea agreement, but the judge is often heavily influenced by the agreement and will usually approve it. It is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney when considering a plea bargain in a federal criminal case. They will be able to assess the prosecutors’ offer and discuss what the possible consequences may be if the plea is accepted. With an experienced attorney, the defendant can make an informed decision about whether or not to accept the plea bargain and make sure their rights are protected.

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What is a plea bargain in a federal criminal case?

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