What is the process for plea bargaining a violent crime case?

Plea bargaining is a process used to resolve criminal cases without going to trial. It is used in many states, including Pennsylvania, to handle cases involving violent crimes. In Pennsylvania, plea bargaining is conducted between the prosecutor, the defense attorney, and the defendant. The first step in plea bargaining a violent crime case is to discuss the case with the prosecutor. The defense attorney and the defendant should present any evidence or defenses they may have that could reduce the severity of the charges or result in a lesser sentence. The prosecutor will then present an offer of reduced charges and/or a reduced sentence in exchange for the defendant pleading guilty. The defense attorney then discusses the offer with the defendant. If the defendant agrees to the plea bargain, the defense attorney and the prosecutor will then work together to draft a plea agreement. The plea agreement must be approved by the judge. Once the plea agreement is approved, the defendant must plead guilty to the reduced charges and/or lesser sentence. The plea must also be made before a judge in open court. If the defendant pleads guilty to the reduced charges, they will avoid a trial, and the case will be closed. However, if the defendant chooses to reject the plea bargain or does not appear in court on the designated date, the case will proceed to trial. The defendant may then face the charges as originally filed.

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What is the process for plea bargaining a violent crime case?

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