6 Things to Know about Plea Deals (Pt. 2)

April 16, 2014

Continuing from 6 Things to Know about Plea Deals (Pt. 1), below are a few more facts that are important to know when you may be considering taking a plea bargain in a criminal case. It’s important to point out that these facts only disclose general information about plea deals and that nothing can take the place of legal advice from an experienced criminal defense attorney like Christopher Griffin.

Fact 3: Prosecutors can bluff about evidence they “have” to try to convince the accused to accept a plea bargain.

While these facts can provide you with some insights about plea bargains, contact Denver Criminal Defense Lawyer Christopher Griffin for more info.

There is no rule that says that prosecutors have to show their hand and tell the defense about their strategies when it comes to working out plea bargains (or litigating a trial). In fact, much in the same way poker players can bluff their way to winning jackpots, prosecutors can bluff their way to convincing an accused person to accept a plea deal even when it may be better for that person to see their case through trial.

For example, prosecutors may lie about having eye witnesses, forensic evidence or other crucial evidence against the accused to try to scare that person into agreeing to a plea deal.

In such cases, having an experienced defense attorney representing the accused will be crucial to calling the prosecutor’s bluff and figuring out the best way to resolve the criminal case.

Fact 4: A judge can change the terms of a plea bargain.

The way plea deals generally work is that the prosecutors will agree to lesser charges and/or lesser sentences in a criminal case in exchange for accused individuals agreeing to file a guilty plea and forego trial. Once a defendant agrees to a plea deal, the prosecutor will make a recommendation regarding the sentencing for the defendant.

Although judges in many cases will follow the prosecutor’s recommendation and hand down a sentence agreed upon in the plea deal, the judge is NOT obligated to comply with this recommendation and can ultimately sentence the defendant as he sees fit. This can end up meaning that, despite agreeing to a plea deal, defendants can end up facing sentences that are just as harsh (or potentially even harsher) than they would have if then ended up going to trial.

Stay posted for the upcoming third installment of this blog for some final important facts about plea deals in criminal cases.

Denver and Boulder Metro Area Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Griffin Law Firm

Facing any type of criminal charges can be both scary and stressful, as a conviction could cost you your reputation, your career, your family and even your freedom. If you or your loved one has been arrested for and/or formally charged with any crime, Christopher Griffin wants you to know that he is ready to immediately start providing you with the strongest possible defense against police and prosecutors – both outside and inside of the courtroom.

Regardless of whether you are facing criminal charges for the first time, have prior convictions and/or were on probation or parole at the time of the alleged crime, Christopher Griffin and all of the legal professionals at the Griffin Law Firm will work relentlessly to help you obtain the best possible outcome to your case. In fact, our steadfast dedication to the notion that the accused are innocent until proven guilty means that we will do everything in our power to help you resolve your case in the most favorable and efficient manner possible.

Let’s Talk about Your Case

To receive a complete evaluation of your case, along with professional advice regarding your best options, contact us by calling 303-280-1070 or by emailing us using the form at the top of this page.

Categories: Blogs, Criminal Defense Strategies, Plea Deals