How Should I Plead My Case?

One of the most commonly asked questions is “how should I plead my case?” While you may think it’s always best to plead “not guilty,” there are times when pleading “no contest” or even pleading “guilty” might serve your interests more. Before you enter any sort of plea, it’s best to first speak with an attorney. An attorney can review the facts of your case and advise you as to how you should proceed forward.

Sometimes it is better to plead guilty and accept a plea bargain than to take your chances fighting your charges in court. Even though you will be sentenced to some type of penalty, it will be a reduced sentence compared to what you would have faced if you took your chances in court and lost.

People tend to plead no contest if they could also be sued in a civil lawsuit. Pleading no contest is neither denying nor admitting that you committed the crime. If you plead guilty, the victim can use your admission of guilt against you in a civil lawsuit for personal injury damages or wrongful death benefits.  

In some cases it’s better to plead not guilty and take your chances in court. One of the reasons it’s so important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney is because an attorney can review the facts of your case to determine what your chances are of successfully overcoming your charges. If you have a good chance of winning your case, then you’re better off pleading not guilty and going to trial.

This blog is meant to be a brief and basic overview of the subject, and should by no means be taken over the advice of a practicing attorney. Once again, if you’ve been arrested on criminal charges, it’s best to consult a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer before entering your plea.