If there is strong evidence against you and you’ve decided that it’s best to just plead guilty, don’t just show up to court on the day of your appearance and utter the word “guilty.” There are a number of things you can do to set yourself up for success after trial even if you plan to plead guilty. In today’s blog, we share some steps you should take before you plead guilty to your criminal charge.
What To Do Before Pleading Guilty
Sometimes pleading guilty is the best move for your case, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other things you should be doing before you submit your plea. Here’s what you’ll want to do before pleading guilty:
1. Consult With A Lawyer – Most law firms offer a free case review session where they can go over the basics of your case. If you’re considering pleading guilty, it doesn’t hurt to take one of these free consultations and learn more about your case and your options. If you truly are up a creek without a paddle, your lawyer will likely tell you so. However, if they see a different path forward or think that you have better options, they may offer to take you on as a client. Learn more about your case before you write yourself off as guilty.
2. Make Sure You Understand The Potential Consequences – Either during this meeting with the lawyer or on your own, make sure that you really dive into the charges and understand the potential penalties you face. Even misdemeanors carry the potential for jail time, and while it’s unlikely you’ll be sent to the slammer if this is your first run-in with the law, really make sure you understand what’s on the table if you plead guilty to a specific charge. A guilty plea may have ripple effects that aren’t specifically listed as a potential sentence. For example, pleading guilty to a speeding ticket can lead to increased car insurance rates, so make sure you really understand the total impact that a guilty plea could have on your life.
3. Consider A Meeting With The DA – It’s also wise to consider reaching out to the district attorney or the prosecution’s office for the county in which you’re being charged. Connect with them and ask if they would be willing to set up a meeting to discuss options related to your case, as you are considering all your options including a plea deal. Instead of pleading guilty in court, you may be able to plead guilty to a lesser charge or have a little more say in sentencing if you make a deal with the prosecution. They will be happy to get your case off their caseload as well, so see what can happen when you get to the bargaining table. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain if you were planning on pleading guilty anyways.
4. Come To Court Prepared and Professionally – Finally, if you end up in court and are ready to plead guilty, make sure you are on-time and dressed professionally. Showcase to the court and the judge that you take the matter seriously, as this can help during sentencing. Also, be sure to stay out of trouble while you’re waiting for this case to play out, as another run-in with the law can suggest to the judge that you are still making poor choices and don’t deserve the benefit of the doubt during sentencing. Be on time, dress well and be respectful in court, regardless of how you plan to plead.
If you do all these things, you’ll likely be able to avoid a worst case scenario despite your guilty plea. For more personalized advice and assistance with your criminal matter, reach out to the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
