OUR BLOG

When facing criminal charges in Colorado, one option that defendants may consider is accepting a plea deal. A plea deal is an agreement between the prosecution and the defendant in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty or no contest to a criminal charge in exchange for certain concessions from the prosecution, such as a reduced sentence or dismissal of some charges. While a plea deal can have some benefits, there are also potential drawbacks. This post will explore the pros and cons of taking a plea deal in a Colorado criminal case.

Pros:

1. Reduced Sentence: One of the most significant benefits of accepting a plea deal is that it can lead to a reduced sentence. If the prosecution has a strong case against you, a plea deal may be the best way to avoid a harsher sentence that you might receive if you were convicted at trial. By negotiating a plea deal, your attorney may be able to secure a reduced sentence or negotiate other terms that are more favorable to you.
2. Certainty: Another benefit of accepting a plea deal is that it can provide certainty in the outcome of your case. Trials can be unpredictable, and there is always the risk of being found guilty and facing a harsh sentence. By accepting a plea deal, you can better understand the potential outcome of your case and avoid the uncertainty of a trial.
3. Lesser Charges: A plea deal can also result in dismissing some charges against you. For example, if you face multiple charges, the prosecution may be willing to drop some of the charges in exchange for your guilty plea to the remaining charges. This can result in a lesser sentence and a better outcome overall.
4. Cost Savings: Trials can be expensive, and accepting a plea deal can save you money on legal fees and other costs associated with going to trial. By negotiating a plea deal, your attorney may be able to reach a resolution that is more cost-effective than going to trial.

Cons:

1. Admitting Guilt: Perhaps the most significant drawback of accepting a plea deal is that you must plead guilty or not contest the charges against you. This means you will admit to committing a crime, which can have consequences beyond your sentence. A guilty plea can impact your ability to find employment, obtain housing and may also result in the loss of certain rights, such as the right to vote or own firearms.
2. Limited Options: By accepting a plea deal, you give up your right to a trial and limit your options for defending yourself. This can be a significant disadvantage if you have a strong defense or believe you are innocent. Once you accept a plea deal, you are committed to the terms of the agreement, and you cannot later change your mind or seek a different outcome.
3. No Appeal: If you accept a plea deal, you generally waive your right to appeal the outcome of your case. If you discover new evidence or believe there were errors in the legal process, you cannot seek a new trial or have the case reviewed by a higher court.
4. Stigma: Accepting a plea deal can also carry a social stigma, as many people view pleading guilty as admitting wrongdoing. This can impact your reputation and how others perceive you, which can have long-lasting consequences.

Accepting a plea deal in a Colorado criminal case can have both benefits and drawbacks, and it is a decision that should not be taken lightly. The decision to accept a plea deal should be based on thoroughly evaluating the evidence against you, the potential sentence if you were to be convicted at trial, and the potential consequences of pleading guilty to a crime, such as an impact on your reputation and future opportunities. Working closely with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you evaluate the pros and cons of a plea deal and determine the best course of action for your specific circumstances is essential. Ultimately, the decision to accept a plea deal or proceed to trial should be based on your individual circumstances and your attorney’s advice, considering your goals, the strength of the evidence against you, and the potential consequences of each option.

About the Author:

Denver-based criminal defense and DUI attorney Jacob E. Martinez is a knowledgeable and experienced litigator with a record of success providing innovative solutions to clients facing criminal charges of any severity. Mr. Martinez has been recognized by countless legal organizations for his exemplary defense work, including Avvo, Best DWI Attorneys, Expertise, Lawyers of Distinction, The National Trial Lawyers, and others. He was also named one of the 10 Best in Client Satisfaction in Colorado by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys for 2020, and is Lead Counsel rated.