Plea-bargaining in DUI Cases
Wednesday by: DoreenPlea-bargaining generally results in a lower-charged offense and/or a lighter sentence in exchange for the defendant’s guilty or nolo contendere plea. It also avoids further court proceedings, saving time and money for all parties involved. Nonetheless, the judge in the case must approve the plea bargain in order for it to be effective.
Plea bargains are also beneficial during sentencing phases. For example, the prosecutor may be willing to adjust the fine amount or the allotted payment time in exchange for a plea. If jail time is unavoidable, the terms of how the jail time is imposed may be plea-bargained. For example, county jail v. alternative sentencing, including electronic monitoring (house arrest) or jail time served on weekends or evenings under a work furlough program.
Minimization or avoidance of jail and fines by plea-bargaining through participation in an alcoholics anonymous program, monetary donation to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, or attending psychological counseling and/or alcohol rehabilitation.
