Michigan Criminal Procedure
Plea Bargaining

What is a Plea Bargain

The vast majority of Michigan criminal cases are resolved by plea bargaining. A plea bargain is a "deal" made with the prosecutor and a criminal defense attorney. A defense attorney has a duty to present all plea bargains to his client. A plea bargain should not be rejected until it is fully explored and explained to a client. Our Macomb County criminal defense attorneys are skilled and know when plea bargaining is a good option.

We do not negotiate your rights and plea bargaining is not an option when you deny guilt or insist on pursuing your right to a trial.

Why Should Someone Accept a Plea Bargain

A criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain to a lower offense or for less punishment. In exchange, the defendant will plead guilty or no contest and give up his right to a trial. A component of a plea bargain may include a dismissal of charges at the end of an advisement period or probation. For youthful offenders a plea bargain may include HYTA which results in a dismissal after a period of time. Likewise, an attorney may be able to negotiate 7411 for a client charged with possession of drugs or marijuana.

Plea Bargaining A Felony Down to a Misdemeanor

Plea bargaining may mean reducing a felony to a misdemeanor to avoid the stigma associated with a felony conviction. We have achieved numerous reductions of felony charges to misdemeanors in every county, including cases in Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, Troy and Warren, when this is the best option.

When do Plea Bargains Occur

Plea bargaining can occur at any stage of a criminal case whereby the defense attorney negotiates the best possible plea for a client. Plea bargaining for misdemeanors will occur at the district court level. Plea bargaining for felony charges can occur at the district court level or at the circuit court level if the case is bound over to the circuit court after preliminary examination. All courts in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne county engage in plea bargaining.

The ABDO LAW FIRM Promise: We will explain all of your options, make recommendations and explore every angle and will never pressure you to take a plea bargain if you want to fight your case at trial.