When should I accept a Plea Bargain for my case- IE-Criminal Defense
I
Know your Exposure

When you’re charged with a crime, it is important for you to know the specifics of the charges you are facing. It is important to know what is the maximum time you could potentially serve in a County Jail or a State Prison for the offense. What other requirements can come with your conviction is extremely important as well. Does your case require you to have to register as a gang offender? Will you have to register as a Sex Offender under PC 290? You should always know the maximum risk you face, when determining whether to accept a Plea Bargain in your case. California Sentencing is some of the most complex rules of law written, so it is important to be fully informed of what could potentially happen to you if you do not settle your case.

 
II
What is the evidence against you?

You should always either know, through seeing, or through speaking with your attorney what the evidence is against you. It is important to know this information because in order to fight a case at a Jury Trial, you must know what the other side, the Prosecution, plans to introduce as evidence that you committed the crime. Having an experienced attorney that keeps you up to date on the status of your case, reviewing evidence with you, and advising you of the evidence you are facing, is critical to having the best representation in your criminal case.

 
III
Are you able to continue working and move on with a conviction on your record?

You must always determine how you future can be affected by a Plea Bargain. Some convictions can cause people to lose their jobs, or even their Professional Licenses. Some people that are not citizens, can be deported upon receiving a conviction for certain charges. It’s always important to know that jail, and a conviction, are only one aspect of how a criminal charge can affect your life and your future. You may never spend a day in jail from a criminal case, but you could still stand to lose everything else.

 
IV
How do I decide if it’s best for me and my case to accept a plea bargain?

The easiest answer to this question is to find the right attorney for you. You need an attorney with knowledge of what you are facing, experience handling similar cases and reviewing evidence, and advocating on your behalf in Court when speaking to Judges and Prosecutors. It’s a big amount of trust, which his why it’s always important to find the right attorney for you. Sometimes, a case is worth fighting all the way to a Jury Trial. Other times, it’s in your best interest to settle your case for the best possible result available in your specific case. After carefully reviewing the evidence in your case, discussing possible results for your case, speaking with your attorney and get their opinion and weighing the pros and cons of accepting a plea bargain, only then, should you be able to, and educated enough, to make the best possible decision for yourself. Make sure to read over the Ten Tips to Hiring an Attorney, to consider when determining what person is best to represent you, or your loved one, in their criminal case.

 
V
Call Today

Making a decision to accept a Plea Bargain is an extremely important decision that you must make at some point in time. It takes time, careful consideration, and good representation to assist you in making the best possible decision for your case. It is important to have an attorney to help guide you, and show you the pros and cons on both sides, and guide you to the best decision for your specific case. I can help you make the best decision for yourself, or your loved one in their criminal case. Call your local Ontario Criminal Defense Attorney today at the Inland Empire Defense 909-281-0456. Located in Ontario.