Having Criminal Lawyers Norwich CT has available during a criminal case is very important. Criminal cases aren’t taken lightly, and judges and juries are known for supplying harsh penalties. If you find yourself in a situation like this, it’s important for you to know what to do. You have a number of options at your fingertips. The ones you choose to exercise could mean the difference of spending 90 days in jail and spending five years in prison.
How would you like to plea? This question is similar to what the courts will ask you. You have the option of pleading guilty, not guilty, and no contest. You may even have the opportunity to work out a plea bargain. Each of these choices can have a drastic effect on your future. It can determine your immediate future, and how an offense will be handled later on.
When you choose a guilty plea, you’re essentially telling the courts that you would like to accept the charges that have been made against you. Upon a guilty plea, the courts will then determine what your sentencing will be. Pleading guilty has it’s advantages and disadvantages. For starters, a guilty plea allows you to avoid months of preparation for your trial. A guilty plea can have your case wrapped up in a matter of minutes. This should be something to think about if you and your Criminal Defense Attorney are positive you’ll be found guilty.
Pleading not guilty simply states that you are challenging the courts charges against you. This is a very bold move, and is made by those who are either actually innocent, or those who feel they have a fighting chance at beating the charges. When you plead not guilty, you and your lawyer will have time to prepare your case for your trial date. However, trials can sometimes be a little unpredictable. If you take the case to trial, and lose, you’ll likely face a harsher punishment than if you’d accepted a guilty plea. These are just a few of the choices to consider upon facing criminal charges. Make sure you and your lawyer have a thorough discussion about your chances in court.
