Is it Better to Plead or Go to Trial?

The question of is it better to plead or go to trial must always be evaluated when you’re facing criminal charges.

Sometimes there can be strategic reasons why negotiating a plea bargain is the right choice. Going to trial and facing a jury can be risky. Juries can be unpredictable. Additional evidence may be uncovered during the trial process that can lead to additional charges.

Anything can happen.

On the other hand, sometimes going to trial is the best choice. You are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and the prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt. There’s a significant difference between them proving you’re guilty and you having to prove you’re innocent.

Which is the Right Choice for You?

We can’t tell you which is the right choice for you without sitting down and talking to you.

Whether it’s better to plead or go to trial absolutely depends on the specific details of your particular case. This is a question that must be answered on an individual basis. It’s an important decision and should not be made without fully considering all the facts of your case.

You also should not make this decision on your own.

Your criminal defense lawyer can help you determine which option gives you the best chance for the most positive outcome in your specific situation.

Do you Need Legal Help?

If you are facing criminal charges, it’s essential for you to obtain legal counsel for help right away. The worst thing you can do is to do nothing and just hope it will all go away. It won’t.

Mark Broughton has been a criminal defense lawyer in Fresno for the past 40+ years, and he can help if you are accused of a crime. He can help you determine the best course of action that will get you the best possible outcome — whether it’s better to plead or go to trial — in your specific situation.

He has the experience, the compassion, and the empathy you need to help get you through the complex and challenging process of facing criminal charges. And he is a firm believer that every person has the right to a fair trial and is innocent until proven guilty.

If you need the help of a criminal defense lawyer, call 559-691-6222 or click here to request a free consultation. We’ll get back to you right away.