Are there any circumstances in which a plea bargain is not an option?

In Florida, plea bargains are not always an option in certain situations. Plea bargains are a method used by prosecutors to avoid costly and often lengthy trials and to offer defendants a reduced sentence in exchange for guilty or no contest pleas. Plea bargains are not available in cases where the defendant is charged with serious violent crimes such as murder or sexual battery, or if the defendant has prior convictions for serious felonies. Other cases where plea bargains may not be an option include cases where the defendant is facing life in prison or if the prosecutor believes the defendant is a danger to the public and needs to be incarcerated for their own safety as well as the safety of the community. Plea bargains are also unavailable if a mandatory minimum sentence applies. In cases involving mandatory minimum sentences, the defendant must serve the full sentence as determined by law and cannot receive a plea bargain.

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Are there any circumstances in which a plea bargain is not an option?

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