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Simple English definitions for legal terms
sentence bargain
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A quick definition of sentence bargain:
A sentence bargain, also known as a plea bargain, is an agreement made between a prosecutor and a defendant in a criminal case. The defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser offense or one of multiple charges in exchange for a concession from the prosecutor, such as a more lenient sentence or dismissal of other charges. This can also be called a charge bargain if the prosecutor agrees to drop some charges or reduce the severity of the charge in exchange for a guilty plea.
A more thorough explanation:
A sentence bargain is a type of plea bargain in which a prosecutor agrees to recommend a lighter sentence in exchange for a guilty or no contest plea from the defendant. This means that the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser offense or to one of multiple charges in exchange for a more lenient sentence or a dismissal of the other charges.
For example, if a defendant is charged with robbery, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, the prosecutor may offer a sentence bargain for a guilty plea to a lesser offense, such as theft, which carries a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison. In exchange, the prosecutor may recommend a sentence of only 2 years in prison.
Sentence bargaining is a common practice in the criminal justice system, as it allows for a quicker resolution to a case and can save both the prosecution and the defense time and resources. However, some critics argue that it can lead to unjust outcomes and may pressure defendants into accepting a plea deal even if they are innocent.