PLEA BARGAIN Meaning and
Definition
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A plea bargain is a legal term that refers to a negotiation process between a prosecutor and a defendant, typically in criminal cases, resulting in a mutually agreed-upon resolution and settlement without the need for a full trial. During a plea bargain, the defendant will plead guilty or no contest to a lesser offense or agree to a more lenient sentence in exchange for certain concessions from the prosecutor. In this context, a guilty plea usually leads to a reduced charge or a lighter sentence, allowing the defendant to avoid the risks and uncertainties associated with a trial.
The plea bargain process involves discussions and negotiations aimed at reaching a compromise that satisfies both parties' interests. It requires consent from the prosecutor, defendant, and often the court's approval. Plea bargains are commonly sought by defendants to minimize potential penalties, avoid the time and expense of a trial, or to obtain other benefits like reduced charges, dropped charges, or a recommended lenient sentence.
While plea bargains can help expedite the legal process and result in efficient resolutions, critics argue that they may undermine the principles of justice by potentially coercing defendants into admitting guilt, even if they are innocent. However, for many individuals accused of crimes, plea bargains provide an opportunity to receive a more favorable outcome compared to the potential consequences of a full trial.
In summary, a plea bargain is an agreement between a defendant and the prosecution, where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge or receives a more lenient sentence in exchange for certain concessions, ultimately avoiding a full trial.
Common Misspellings for PLEA BARGAIN
- plea barganing
- plea-bartain
- pleabargain
- plea-bargin
- pleabargein
- pleabargainn
- pleebargain
- plea baergin
- plea bargann
- plea bargen
- plee bartain
- plea baergan
Etymology of PLEA BARGAIN
The word "plea bargain" comes from the combination of two terms: "plea" and "bargain".
The term "plea" can be traced back to the Latin word "placitum", meaning "a decree or decision". From there, it evolved through various languages and meanings over time. In English law, "plea" refers to a defendant's formal response to a criminal charge, stating guilty or not guilty.
The word "bargain" originates from the Old English word "bargan", meaning "to negotiate" or "to strike a deal". It has Germanic roots and is related to similar words in Dutch and German.
When these terms combine, "plea bargain" refers to the practice of negotiating an agreement between the prosecution and the defense in a criminal case. The defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge or receive a reduced sentence in exchange for the concession.
Similar spelling words for PLEA BARGAIN
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