Understanding the Various Types of Pleas in Criminal Cases
When you face criminal charges in Oklahoma, one of the first critical decisions involves entering a plea. This decision shapes the direction of your case and its potential outcome. By law, the initial plea entered on your behalf at your first court appearance is a plea of not guilty, unless you decide otherwise. This automatic plea protects your right to a fair trial while your case moves forward. In fact, roughly 98% of criminal cases in the United States—and Oklahoma is no exception—are resolved through plea agreements rather than trial.
Criminal Plea Options in Oklahoma: The Three Main Types
1. Guilty Plea
A guilty plea means you admit to committing the offense you are charged with. In Oklahoma, this plea can be part of a negotiated agreement with the prosecutor or a blind plea entered directly to the judge without a deal. Pleading guilty generally results in a conviction, and the court will proceed to sentencing. Okla. Stat. tit. 22 § 1113.
2. No Contest Plea (Nolo Contendere)
A no contest plea means you do not admit guilt but also will not dispute the charges. This plea operates similarly to a guilty plea in criminal court, but it has important distinctions in related civil matters. For example, if your case involves a DUI that caused an accident, a guilty plea could be used against you in a civil lawsuit for damages. A no contest plea generally cannot be used as an admission of liability in civil court. This distinction can influence the strategic choice of plea in cases where civil liability may follow criminal charges.
3. Alford Plea
The Alford plea, recognized in Oklahoma under North Carolina v. Alford, 400 U.S. 25 (1970), allows a defendant to plead guilty while still asserting innocence. Essentially, you acknowledge that the prosecution’s evidence is strong enough to likely result in a conviction, but you maintain you did not commit the crime. Legally, the effect is the same as a guilty plea, including sentencing and conviction, but it preserves your claim of innocence for personal or strategic reasons.
Procedural Context: When and How Pleas Are Entered
In Oklahoma criminal cases, pleas are typically entered at the arraignment, the first formal court appearance after charges are filed. If you do not enter a plea, the court enters a not guilty plea on your behalf. Later, after discovery and negotiations, you may change your plea to guilty, no contest, or Alford. Oklahoma law requires that any plea be made voluntarily, knowingly, and intelligently.
Common Complications in Plea Decisions
- Impact on Immigration Status: Some pleas, especially guilty pleas to certain offenses, can lead to deportation for non-citizens.
- Future Employment and Licensing: A conviction may affect professional licenses and job prospects.
- Prior Criminal Record: Repeat offenders may face enhanced penalties even with a plea bargain.
- Pending Civil Claims: As noted, guilty pleas can be used in civil lawsuits, complicating cases involving accidents or personal injury.
A Practical Example of Plea Choices
Imagine someone charged with DUI after causing a car accident. They might consider a no contest plea to the DUI charge. This plea allows them to avoid admitting guilt in court, which could be used against them in a related civil lawsuit for damages caused by the accident. Meanwhile, the criminal case resolves without a trial, potentially reducing jail time or fines through negotiation. Each choice carries risks and benefits, highlighting why consulting an experienced Oklahoma City attorney is crucial.
Next Steps for Criminal Pleas in Oklahoma
Entering a plea is one of the most important decisions you will make in a criminal case. Each plea option has serious legal consequences that can affect your freedom, finances, and future. It is essential to fully understand your rights, the evidence against you, and the potential outcomes. Consulting with a qualified criminal defense attorney will help you make an informed choice and develop a defense strategy tailored to your circumstances.
Contact an Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Lawyer for Help with Plea Decisions
If you need legal help, call Wirth Law Office – Oklahoma City at (405) 888-5400. Our team is ready to guide you through the complexities of the criminal justice system and help you understand the plea options available to you. While we cannot guarantee specific outcomes, we can ensure you have clear information and strong representation every step of the way.
