Plea bargain checklist
Plea bargain checklist
Given the importance of the plea bargain, counsel must prepare carefully to assure, as much as possible that a positive outcome is likely. The following areas must be considered in preparing to meet with the prosecution to discuss a possible plea bargain:
- Uncertainties as to applicability of the computer crime law
- Difficulties in admission of evidence necessary to prove defendant's guilt
- Uncertainty as to effect of the case on a jury
- The likelihood that the court will sentence defendant lightly, even if there is no plea bargain
- The lack of consensus about the appropriate sentence for a "white-collar" criminal
- Any equities favoring defendant
- The possibility of restitution