Tulsa Defense Attorney: Benefits of ‘Nolo Contendere‘
Have you been charged with a crime but find things to be not so black or white, and unsure what is the best legal approach?
At the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm, our defense attorney’s understand the uncertainty that someone accused of a crime can feel. Our experienced Tulsa defense lawyers have the knowledge to help guide you through your defense and possible plea strategy.
A no contest plea, also known as nolo contendere, is a type of plea in which the defendant does not admit to committing the crime, but does not contest the charges either. Although a no contest plea can lead to the same consequences as a guilty plea in most cases, a no contest plea can be beneficial to a client in a deferred adjudication situation.
Deferred Adjudication
Deferred adjudication is a type of probation in which the defendant pleads guilty or no contest to the charges, but instead of receiving a conviction, they are placed on probation. If the defendant successfully completes the probation, the charges are dismissed. However, if the defendant violates the terms of the probation, they can face the original charges and a conviction.
In this situation, a no contest plea can be beneficial because it allows the defendant to avoid admitting guilt while still accepting the terms of the deferred adjudication. This can be particularly important in cases where the defendant may face civil litigation related to the criminal charges, as an admission of guilt can be used against them in those proceedings.
Additionally, a no contest plea may be beneficial if the defendant is concerned about the impact a guilty plea could have on their employment or professional license. By entering a no contest plea, the defendant avoids the stigma of a guilty plea while still accepting responsibility for their actions.
Defense Attorney Bargaining Chip
A good criminal defense attorney can use a no contest plea to help their clients in a variety of ways. For example, a skilled Tulsa defense lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges or penalties against their client in exchange for a no contest plea. Additionally, an attorney can use a no contest plea to avoid the risks of a trial. If a defendant pleads no contest, they avoid the risk of being found guilty and can avoid the potentially severe consequences of a guilty verdict.
Additionally, a no contest plea can be used as a bargaining chip in plea negotiations with prosecutors. Prosecutors may be more willing to negotiate a plea deal when the defendant is willing to plead no contest rather than insisting on a not guilty plea and going to trial. A defendant may get more satisfaction from pleading no contest than from admitting guilt when they don’t believe they are guilty.
Contact our Skilled Defense Lawyers Today
If you are facing criminal charges in Oklahoma and are unsure of the best way to proceed, it is essential to seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. At Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm, our team of attorneys has extensive experience representing clients in criminal cases and can help you understand your legal options. We can work with you to develop a strategy for your case that maximizes your chances of a favorable outcome.
Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, we are here to help. Contact us today at 918-256-3400 to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled criminal defense attorneys. With our help, you can fight the charges against you and protect your rights and freedoms. If you need a criminal defense attorney in Tulsa, Oklahoma, call the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm at 918-256-3400.