If you are charged with a crime, it is possible that you could go to jail, face a fine or spend months or years on probation. However, your criminal defence lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea deal on your behalf. This may be true even if you admitted to committing a crime. What variables decide whether or not you are entitled to a plea deal in your case?

Can the Prosecution Prove That You Committed the Crime?

The prosecution may not have enough evidence to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are guilty of a specific charge. For instance, it may not be possible to charge you with murder without a weapon or without a body. Therefore, you may be offered a plea deal that either reduces the amount of jail time that you have to serve or replaces jail time with probation and community service.

Is a Charge Worth Prosecuting?

Let’s say that you were charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. By law, you could be sentenced to time in jail as well as a fine. However, it may be easier to simply have you pay a fine and attend traffic school instead of spending time in jail. In some cases, being away from your family or being out of work for several months could actually be worse for yourself or your children. Assuming that you didn’t hurt anyone and that you are remorseful for your actions it may be easier plea the case and save the taxpayers money. If you would like to learn more, visit Donna V. Pledge and check out their online resources.

Could You Offer Something of Value?

In some cases, it may be better to give you a plea deal in exchange for the name of a ringleader or crime boss. Getting this person could put a stop to drug smuggling or other serious crimes being committed in a given location. Therefore, you may be offered a lenient jail sentence or other favorable terms in exchange for information that could lead to a more high profile arrest.

Do You Have a Criminal Record?

Plea deals are often given to those who don’t have a criminal record or don’t have a recent criminal record. It may be better for society for an individual to do community service or get medical treatment instead of spending time in jail or prison. In addition to saving money, it could prevent an individual from committing future crimes.

If you have been charged with a crime, you should talk to a criminal lawyer today. It may be possible to get a plea deal that reduces the penalties that you face in your case. In some cases, charges may even be dropped if you complete probation or otherwise stay out of trouble after agreeing to the plea.