Were you charged with a crime in Maryland and wondering whether to accept a plea deal? Plea bargaining can significantly shape the outcome of your case, potentially reducing penalties and sparing you the risks of a full trial. At the same time, it’s a complicated decision that could have long-term consequences.
Below, we discuss what a plea deal is, how the process works under Maryland law, and why it’s vital to consider both the pros and cons before making a choice. Understanding these basics can help you protect your rights and make an informed decision if you ever find yourself in this situation.
Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys will guide you through the process. You can contact us online or call (301) 262-7005 today.
What Is a Plea Deal?
A plea deal (or plea bargain) is an agreement in a criminal case where the defendant pleads guilty or no contest to certain charges in exchange for a specific outcome. Often, this outcome is a less severe sentence, reduced charges, or both. Plea deals allow courts to handle many cases quickly, saving time and resources for more complex matters. Defendants, in turn, can potentially avoid a harsher sentence they might face if convicted at trial.
In Maryland, plea deals are common in both misdemeanors and felonies. They might involve dropping some counts or downgrading a felony to a misdemeanor. Even so, accepting a plea means giving up certain rights — like the right to a jury trial. This decision should never be made lightly.
How Does a Plea Deal Work in Maryland?
Maryland law grants prosecutors broad discretion in handling plea negotiations. Generally, a defendant and the prosecutor discuss possible terms. These talks can begin soon after arrest or closer to trial. A judge must approve the final agreement.
Key points to remember include:
- Reduced Charges: The prosecutor may offer to dismiss or reduce certain charges if you plead guilty to others.
- Sentencing Recommendations: Sometimes, the prosecutor proposes a specific sentence. Judges usually consider these recommendations but aren’t bound to follow them in every case.
- Alford Pleas: In rare situations, you might plead guilty while still claiming innocence, known as an Alford plea. This approach has unique implications and risks.
Once a plea deal is in place, you’ll appear before the court, where the judge reviews the agreement. If the court finds it reasonable, they typically accept it and impose the agreed-upon terms. You may proceed to trial or negotiate further if the deal is rejected.
Common Types of Plea Bargains
Although every case is different, Maryland plea deals often fall into several categories:
- Charge Bargaining: reducing charges to a lesser offense (e.g., a felony assault charge might become a misdemeanor)
- Sentence Bargaining: agreeing to a specific penalty, such as probation, instead of jail time
- Count Bargaining: dropping some counts in exchange for a guilty plea on others
Sometimes, these forms overlap. The prosecutor might reduce charges and recommend a lighter sentence in one offer. Each type has its own pros and cons, depending on the situation.
Factors Affecting a Plea Offer
Why do some people get favorable deals while others face tougher terms? Many factors can play a role:
- Strength of the Evidence: A prosecutor may be more open to negotiation if the state’s case is weak.
- The Seriousness of the Crime: Felony offenses or sex crimes tend to involve stricter deals, if any.
- Criminal History: Repeat offenders often receive less leniency than first-time defendants.
- Potential Punishment: Prosecutors might offer a deal to avoid the time and cost of a trial when the possible sentence is high.
- Victim Input: In Maryland, victims have the right to share their views, which can influence negotiations.
These elements work together to shape the prosecution’s proposal. Skilled defense attorneys examine these factors to gauge a client’s bargaining power.
What Happens if You Accept a Plea Deal?
By entering a guilty or no contest plea, you give up certain constitutional rights, including:
- The right to a jury trial
- The right to cross-examine witnesses
- The right to remain silent without consequences
In return, you receive the terms outlined in the agreement, such as reduced charges or a specific sentencing range. This process is usually faster and may lead to a more predictable outcome than taking your case to trial. However, you’ll have a criminal conviction on your record, which can affect employment or housing opportunities later on.
Contact a Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer for More Information About Plea Deals
Plea deals play a major role in Maryland’s criminal justice system. They can help you resolve charges more quickly, avoid harsher penalties, and bring a sense of closure. But they also carry long-term consequences, especially if the evidence in your case is strong enough to contest at trial. Before making a final choice, it’s important to understand your options.
If you’re unsure about whether to accept a plea agreement, consider reaching out to us. An attorney can discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each path, negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf, and fight to protect your rights every step of the way.