Should I accept a plea bargain to reduce my reckless driving charges?

Benefits of a Plea Agreement for the Prosecutor and Judge

Many reckless driving cases are resolved through a plea deal. There is a clear benefit to the prosecutor and court. They both have high caseloads, and a plea bargain avoids the necessity of a trial. In addition, these agreements usually result in a guilty plea, which the prosecutor would see as a victory.

What You Need to Consider Before Agreeing to a Plea Deal

You should never accept a plea bargain without first consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer. They will help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of agreeing to it. Some of the benefits may include:

• Avoid uncertainties. You avoid the risks of taking your case to trial if you agree to a plea bargain. You will also most likely know the punishments you will face and may be able to negotiate for less serious penalties.
• Save money. You will save significant money on attorney fees if you resolve your criminal case through a plea deal rather than taking your case to a trial.
• Reduce stress. It can be stressful and time-consuming to go to trial. You avoid these hassles if you enter into a plea bargain.
• Avoid jail. If you agree to plead guilty, the prosecutor may agree to recommend probation, community service, or fines instead of a jail sentence.
• Get charges reduced. Another benefit of entering into a plea deal is that the prosecutor may agree to reduce the charges to a less serious misdemeanor offense or a traffic offense, which would not result in you having a permanent criminal record.
• Obtain a quick resolution. Your case will be resolved more quickly through a plea bargain than if it is decided at trial. This can help you complete your sentence faster and get on with your life.

You also need to weigh the drawbacks of entering into a plea bargain. A few of the drawbacks to consider include:

• You would be pleading guilty to a traffic violation or criminal offense.
• The prosecutor may want to enter into a plea deal because they have a weak case against you. If you fought the charges, you might be able to get the case dismissed.
• You would be waiving your right to raise defenses in your criminal case. Even if you are guilty of reckless driving, you could have strong defenses that could result in you being found not guilty.
• You would be accepting some form of punishment for the offense you are pleading guilty to committing.
• You would have a permanent criminal record if you plead guilty and your reckless driving offense is not reduced to a traffic citation.