If you’ve been accused of a crime, knowing whether to take the case to trial or accept a plea deal can be key to achieving the best possible outcome. Depending on the strength of the state’s case, a negotiated plea arrangement may be the best choice available, although you may be tempted to proclaim your innocence in court. When your freedom may be at stake, it’s always best to listen to the advice of a private criminal defense attorney.

When Is It Best to Accept a Plea Bargain?

What Is a Plea Deal?

Approximately 95% of criminal cases are resolved through plea bargains, in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for reduced charges or a more lenient sentence. A plea deal avoids the expense, emotional strain, and public spectacle of a trial, but the deal offered may not always be in your best interests. In fact, prosecutors are generally unwilling to negotiate with defendants who aren’t represented by a skilled criminal defense lawyer.

When Are Plea Deals in Your Best Interest?

If the prosecution has a strong case with substantial evidence, a trial may result in the maximum sentence, especially if the state pursues multiple charges. In these instances, your skilled criminal defense attorney will leverage issues with the prosecution’s case, including circumstantial evidence, faulty warrants, or unreliable witnesses, and work toward getting the charges reduced as much as possible.

When Should You Accept a Deal?

Identifying available legal options and explaining the most likely outcomes of each approach is one of the most valuable services a criminal defense lawyer provides. If they believe a courtroom trial is most likely to lead to a conviction, it may be best to follow their advice and accept a plea bargain. By the same token, if they notice substantial problems with the prosecution’s case, they may recommend going to court, even if the plea bargain seems fair.

Since 1926, the criminal defense lawyers at Nichols, Speidel & Nichols have protected the rights of defendants throughout Ohio’s Clermont County. If you’ve been charged with a crime, they provide the efficient, effective, affordable representation you need, with expertise you can count on. To discuss your case and schedule a consultation, visit their website or call their offices at (513) 732-1420.