Know When to Fold 'Em: Why Taking a Plea is Sometimes an Important Option

If you are charged with a crime, the decision to accept a plea bargain can be one of the toughest calls you may ever make. The problem is, these are never simple decisions and there are so many factors that play into it that there is never a “one size fits all” approach. If you are facing serious criminal charges in Minnesota, you may need to go to trial.  On the other hand, there are times when there may be better options and it is about felxibility.  Make sure you consult with an experienced Minnesota criminal defense attorney to understand all of your options.

“As the song goes, “know when to hold em, know when to fold em.”  It is never an easy decision but it is always an important consideration.”

What Issues Should You Consider When Accepting a Plea Bargain?

Every criminal case comes with some objective facts and some subjective facts. Also, some of those ones might be inadmissible.  While there are times when a trial is absolutely required, there are other times when it may be extraordinarily difficult to prevail.  If this happens, what options are before you? What are the considerations for accepting a plea deal? Is it worth it?  Are there other considerations?  In this article, we will explore the reasons why taking a plea is sometimes the smart idea.

• Avoiding the Harshest Charges, Sentences and Conditions

One of the primary advantages of a plea bargain is the opportunity to negotiate reduced charges and sentences. The benefit at this stage is the ability to highlight weaknesses in the state’s case and to argue for alternatives to charges, lesser charges, lesser sentences, lesser amounts of probation, different terms and more.  The real advantage is to provide a clear option to going to trial so that there can be a more clear comparison between the options.  This can also be useful when there is a risk of a lengthy prison sentence.

• Predictability and Certainty

Trials can be unpredictable, and the outcome is not always certain or guaranteed. One of the advantages of a plea deal is certainty and predictability.  You know what will happen versus the precariousness of putting your future in the hands of a jury.  This isn’t to say that you shouldn’t go to trial.  It simply allows options for those who might be more risk adverse.

• Protecting Your Privacy and Reputation

One of the largest concerns of a trial is the impact that it can have on your reputation or the reputation of your loved ones.  A trial can open up a lot of information to the public that may be hurtful and public trials attract media attention and may expose personal details to public scrutiny. By accepting a plea, this gives you the option of avoiding a public trial and allows you the ability to maintain that privacy and some of those relationships.  For those in the public eye or with employers who are concerned of such things, this issue may be paramount.

• Avoiding Harsher Penalties and Mitigating Risk

Juries can be unpredictable, and the evidence presented during a trial might not always work in your favor. Taking a plea can be a strategic move to avoid the risk of being convicted on more severe charges or receiving harsher penalties. This is particularly true when there is a strong case or when previous convictions could lead to an enhanced sentence.  Again, it’s about flexibility and giving you options.

“A well seasoned criminal defense attorney should always help provide options. If you go to trial, how do you win?  If you don’t go to trial, what is the best alternative. Then you decide.”

Deciding whether to accept a plea deal is a complex and highly individualized choice. Jack Rice Criminal Defense recognizes that each case is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. While the decision to take a plea should never be made hastily, understanding the potential benefits can help defendants and their attorneys make informed choices. When facing criminal charges, it is crucial to have a skilled and experienced legal team that can guide defendants through the plea bargaining process and advocate for their best interests. Sometimes, folding 'em and accepting a plea can be the smartest decision one can make in a challenging legal battle.

Jack Rice is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist with over 25 years of experience.  He is a nationally known and respected criminal defense attorney, former prosecutor and former CIA Officer. He Founded Jack Rice Defense to represent clients facing some of the most difficult criminal charges imaginable.  Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation of call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your life is on the line, Jack Rice Defense.