If you've been charged with a crime, you've likely heard the term "plea bargain." For many people, the process is confusing and misunderstood. Some assume accepting a plea bargain means accepting defeat. Others believe it is more of a shortcut through the criminal justice system. A plea bargain is a common process that happens in court and can provide significant benefits depending on the facts of a case.

For defendants in Buffalo and Western New York, understanding how plea bargains work can help you make informed decisions about your future. Every criminal case is unique, and whether a plea agreement is appropriate depends on the strength of the evidence, the charges involved, the applicable law, and your personal goals. 

In this blog, we will educate you on everything you need to know about how a plea bargain works in New York State law.

What Is a Plea Bargain?

A plea bargain is an agreement between the defendant and the prosecutor in a criminal case. Instead of going straight to trial, the defendant agrees to plead guilty to their charges in exchange for concessions made by the prosecution. Those concessions could include reducing the charges, agreeing to recommend or consent to a particular sentence where permitted, or dismissing other pending charges. 

In New York State, this can occur at nearly any stage of a criminal case, from shortly after your arraignment until a verdict is reached at the trial. However, the prosecution is not obligated to offer a plea bargain, and any plea agreement is subject to the court's approval. Prosecutors may recommend an outcome of their choosing, but the judge ultimately has the final say on what the sentence is. 

How Does the Plea Bargaining Process Work?

Plea negotiations may begin shortly after arraignment and often continue as the defense reviews discovery, investigates the case, and evaluates the prosecution's evidence. As it develops, the attorney and prosecution discuss whether resolving the matter without a trial is appropriate.

During these negotiations, the defense attorney evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution's case while identifying any legal issues or defenses that could affect the outcome. Based on these discussions, the prosecutor may extend an offer that provides a benefit in exchange for a guilty plea.

This is important… You, as a defendant, are not required to accept a plea bargain. Instead, the attorney will explain to you the potential risks involved and the benefits of accepting the offer versus continuing with a trial. The final decision will always belong to the defendant.

If an agreement is reached, the defendant appears before a judge to enter the guilty plea. The judge reviews the agreement, ensures the defendant understands that their rights are being waived, and determines whether to accept the plea before sentencing.

The Reasons Why Someone Accepts a Plea Bargain

There are many reasons why a defendant will choose to accept a plea bargain. One of the most common benefits is reducing the severity of the charges. Here's an example: let's say a felony charge is being negotiated to be reduced to a misdemeanor under certain circumstances. That can significantly lessen the long-term consequences of a conviction.

A plea agreement can also reduce the penalties for your charges. Rather than facing the uncertainty of a trial and the possibility of a harsher sentence if convicted, a defendant may be put on probation, be put into required community service, or be given another favorable sentencing recommendation.

Plea bargains can resolve a case quickly instead of sending it to trial. Trials require months of hard work and preparation, along with multiple court appearances and significant emotional stress for everyone involved. Resolving a plea bargain allows defendants to move forward sooner and avoids the uncertainty of a jury verdict.

Are There Downsides to a Plea Bargain?

Plea bargains are not always going to be the best option for you, and there are downsides to them, as we alluded to. By pleading guilty, you're giving up your constitutional rights, including the right to a jury trial, the right to confront witnesses, and the right to require the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. A guilty plea results in a criminal conviction, which may carry lasting consequences beyond the sentence imposed. 

Depending on the charges, a conviction could affect your ability to find employment, receive any form of professional licensing, immigration status, applications for housing, or even educational opportunities. Because these consequences vary from case to case, defendants should carefully discuss every potential outcome with an experienced criminal defense attorney before making a decision.

Why Experienced Legal Representation Matters For This

At DuBios Law, we understand how to evaluate the evidence of every case we are a part of, identify any weaknesses on the side of the prosecution, negotiate favorable terms, and determine whether the proposed agreement truly serves the best interests of a defendant.

There are times when accepting that plea bargain may be the most practical path forward. In others, the evidence may justify challenging the charges at trial. This is not just about a one-size-fits-all approach; the case has to be analyzed with the most proper legal strategy in place.

A plea bargain is simply one option available within New York State's criminal justice system, and for defendants, it provides an opportunity to give them a chance. If you have been charged with a crime in Buffalo or anywhere in Western New York, we are here for you! If you have any questions about this topic or need legal representation, give us a call or reach out to us through our contact form.

Plea Bargain FAQ

Can someone change their mind after accepting a plea bargain deal? 

Once a judge accepts your plea bargain and enters it into the record, it will be difficult to withdraw it. Before sentencing, a defendant may ask the court to withdraw a guilty plea, but the court is not required to grant the request. After sentencing, withdrawing a plea is even more difficult and generally requires post-conviction relief or a successful appeal based on specific legal grounds. That's why it's important to fully understand the terms of any plea deal and discuss your options with a defense attorney before making a decision.

DISCLAIMER: PAST RESULTS DO NOT GUARANTEE FUTURE RESULTS. THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE. DANIEL DUBOIS AND ANY DUBOIS LAW ATTORNEYS ARE NOT YOUR ATTORNEYS UNLESS RETAINED. INFORMATION SHARED HERE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. EACH CASE IS UNIQUE AND IS DECIDED BASED ON ITS OWN FACTS AND MERITS AND CANNOT BE COMPARED TO OTHER CASES WHICH MAY HAVE HAD DIFFERENT FACTS AND CIRCUMSTANCES.