Criminal Case
In nearly every criminal case the prosecutor makes a plea offer to resolve the case. Although our first priority is to get your case dismissed, we will always discuss plea offer options with you. Some clients are happy to take the deal to move on with their lives, while others cannot stand the idea.
So what do you do when you have a strong defense, but the prosecutor makes a plea offer that is “too good to refuse”. While the decision is ultimately yours, sometimes a “too good to refuse” plea offer can be a signal that the prosecutor is not very confident in their case. Although not always the case, sometimes it is a signal that you have a good chance of winning at trial. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some things to consider.
What is your highest priority regarding the outcome of your case? Do you want to seek an acquittal or dismissal at all costs even if that means risking a conviction at trial? Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your case with your attorney. Remember their job is not to tell you what you want to hear. If they tell you something you don’t want to hear you should probably thank them. It means they are being honest with you. Are you willing to risk a conviction by rejecting the offer? Does the offer protect certain interests you place a high value on? If that is the case the certainty of a plea offer may be worth accepting. Are there collateral consequences of significance to you? If so, what are those and how might that plea agreement impact them?
Each criminal case is different, and each client is different. Some people value certain aspects of an outcome greater than others. Our small firm takes the time to get to know you and your values to help advise you which decision is best for you. We know that these decisions can have a life-long impact, and want you to be confident knowing you have excellent counsel on your side.