Should I Plead Guilty?

Pleading guilty to a criminal charge in the state of Wisconsin has certain benefits and detriments. In some instances, depending upon the criminal offense with which you have been charged, pleading guilty as part of a plea deal can help you escape the black mark of a conviction on your record, assuming that you complete all of the terms of your probation. In addition, pleading guilty to a criminal charge removes the uncertainty associated with a trial. However, it might make more sense to take your case to trial in other circumstances, especially if you have a legal defense in your case that stands a good chance of success. 

Pleading Guilty as Part of a Plea Bargain

Plea deals are common in criminal cases. In fact, far more cases are resolved through plea deals than at trial. When a state prosecutor puts a plea deal on the table, your attorney can advise you on whether it makes sense to accept the plea deal under your particular circumstances. Even if you agree on a plea deal with the prosecutor, the court will still have to accept the terms of the deal. 

As part of a plea deal, the accused individual will typically plead guilty to a less-serious criminal charge. Alternatively, the accused might agree to a period of probation that they must complete in order to avoid a conviction for the underlying charge.

Rights You Give Up When You Plead Guilty to a Criminal Charge

When deciding whether you should plead guilty to a criminal charge, you should always remember that you will be giving up certain legal rights by doing so. First, you will be giving up your constitutional right to a trial where a jury would decide your guilt or innocence. In addition, by pleading guilty to a criminal charge, you give up any appeal rights that you might have had.

If you do decide to plead guilty, the judge will ask you a series of questions in order to make certain that you are making your guilty plea knowingly, intelligently, voluntarily, and with no one coercing you to do so.

Contact a Knowledgeable Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Deciding whether to plead guilty to a criminal charge or take the case to trial can be difficult. Generally speaking, you have the best chances of prevailing at trial if you have one or more strong legal defenses in your corner. However, the outcome of a trial is always uncertain.

We can help you weigh the pros and cons of pleading guilty to your criminal charge. Call the experienced legal team at Cohen Law Offices (715) 514-5051 or contact us online for a free legal consultation and case evaluation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer.