It doesn’t matter how serious a crime you’ve been accused of, there are times when you just want it over with, and so you entertain the notion of a plea deal when the prosecuting lawyer throws out the bait. Do you really want a conviction on your record, even though it will probably carry a lesser degree of penalty?
Here are a few very good reasons not to take that plea deal if your criminal defense lawyer advises against it.
They Know the Prosecution Is Fishing
It may sound like a strange metaphor or analogy, but there really are times when the prosecution doesn’t have the evidence that they need to win the case in front of a jury. At times like these, the lawyer will go fishing to see if you take the bait. If you even hesitate to consider it, they will use that as a sign that you really are guilty. No one who is innocent would consider being found guilty, would they? You’d be surprised! When you refuse to take the deal, the criminal lawyer will be like pit bulls latching on to find that one bit of evidence they can use against you. You did, after all, consider a plea deal, which to them means you are guilty. That may not be the case at all!
What Is a Delay Now in Comparison to What You Are Facing?
Some innocent people are willing to take that plea deal just to get on with their lives. They’ve been offered probation in lieu of prison time and that sounds appealing at the moment. However, if your criminal defence lawyer advises against it because they feel there is a very good chance to prove your innocence, don’t settle for the deal. What is a delay now when awaiting trial in comparison to the rest of your life which may suffer severe consequences with a guilty verdict?
Speaking of Consequences
Speaking of consequences, there are some consequences beyond jail time that you should be aware of when found guilty of a crime in the Province of Ontario, or any Province really. Your good name may be indelibly tarnished and that can have far-reaching consequences you hadn’t thought of. From landing that dream job, being approved for a rental apartment, or being approved for a loan, some criminal infractions carry more weight than you can imagine so you certainly don’t want them on your record!
Altogether too many people have said that they wish they had listened to their criminal defense lawyer when being advised against a plea deal offered by the prosecuting lawyer It may sound appealing at the moment but the consequences, as mentioned, can be far-reaching and have a major impact on the rest of your life. If your attorney or criminal defense lawyer advises you not to take that deal, you should sit up and listen. They have your best interest at heart and if they feel they can win your case in front of a jury, then their confidence should inspire you. Never admit to any criminal action you haven’t done just to make it easy. The ramifications could make your life harder than you can ever imagine.
