What You Should Know About Plea Deals In a Texas Drug Crime Case

 Posted on April 26, 2022 in Criminal Defense

Texas has some of the strictest drug laws in the country. Penalties for drug offenses are harsh and often include significant prison time. If you or a loved one were charged with drug possession, drug manufacturing, drug delivery, or another drug-related offense, it is important to understand your rights and options fully. Prosecutors often offer a plea deal or plea bargain to criminal defendants charged with drug crimes. Before you accept a plea deal, speak with a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer to ensure you make the best possible decision.

Pleading Guilty to a Lesser Charge

People charged with a criminal offense are given the option to plead guilty or not guilty to the crime. Pleading guilty is admitting to the offense. Pleading not guilty means that the person intends to fight the charges at trial. In many criminal cases, the prosecution offers the defendant a plea deal. Essentially, a plea deal or plea bargain is a chance for the defendant to plead guilty to an offense in exchange for some type of benefit. For example, the prosecution may offer the defendant the chance to plead guilty to a lesser criminal offense in exchange for the prosecution dropping the original charges against him or her. The prosecution may also offer a reduced sentence in exchange for the defendant’s guilty plea. The defendant may accept the plea bargain or turn down the deal and take his or her chances at trial.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Plea Bargain

When an individual is charged with a drug crime or any other criminal offense, they have certain Constitutional rights. Among these rights is the right to a trial. During a criminal trial, a defendant is given a chance to defend himself or herself against criminal charges. The defendant’s lawyer can present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and make a case for the defendant’s innocence. The jury considers the evidence and arguments presented by the prosecution and the defense and eventually finds the defendant either guilty or not guilty.

If a defendant pleads guilty to an offense, there is no need for a trial. Taking a plea deal essentially strips an individual of their right to a trial. However, there are many cases in which taking a plea deal is the right choice. For example, if there is a mountain of evidence pointing to the defendant’s guilt and little evidence to suggest he or she is innocent, there is a scarce chance of receiving an acquittal. Therefore, it may be better to take a plea deal and avoid harsher penalties.

Contact a Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one were charged with a drug crime, contact our Atascosa County criminal defense lawyers for help. We can help you evaluate your options and make the choice that is right for your unique situation. Call 830-769-1010 for a free, confidential consultation.

Source:

https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/resources/law_related_education_network/how_courts_work/pleabargaining/