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The Pros and Cons of Accepting a Plea Agreement in Los Angeles

By Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney on October 14, 2025

If you’re facing criminal charges in Los Angeles, prosecutors may offer you a plea agreement that reduces charges or sentences in exchange for a guilty or no-contest plea. But is that the right decision for you?

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, our clients come to us when everything is on the line. We know that your criminal defense strategy must weigh the real-world impact of a plea agreement’s pros and cons. We break down how plea bargaining really works in LA and how strategic negotiations can shape the outcome.

What Is a Plea Agreement?

A plea agreement (also called a plea bargain) is a negotiated resolution between the prosecution and the defense. In exchange for the defendant pleading guilty or no contest, the prosecutor may agree to one or more of the following:

• Reducing the charges
• Recommending a lighter sentence
• Dropping additional charges
• Suggesting alternative sentencing, such as diversion or probation

Courts simply don’t have the resources to try every case. That’s why the overwhelming majority of criminal cases in California are resolved through plea deals.

When the stakes include your future, your freedom, and your reputation, you can’t afford to accept a poorly negotiated deal. That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney by your side who knows how the process works.

Benefits of Accepting a Plea Deal

Reduced Sentencing Exposure

When facing serious charges, especially felonies, a plea bargain can dramatically reduce potential penalties. For example, someone facing 5–10 years for aggravated assault might agree to a reduced charge with a 2-year sentence or even probation.

Certainty and Finality

Trials are unpredictable. A plea deal removes uncertainty and gives you control over the outcome. This is especially valuable in LA Superior Court, where congested dockets and prosecutorial discretion can create risky trial dynamics.

Speedier Resolution

Criminal trials can take months or even years to conclude. Accepting a plea deal resolves the case quickly, reducing emotional stress, legal fees, and the disruption to your life.

Alternative Sentencing Options

Los Angeles courts may offer sentencing alternatives as part of a negotiated deal, such as diversion, counseling, or rehabilitation programs,. These options can help you avoid jail.

Risks of Accepting a Plea Deal

Having a Criminal Record

Even if the sentence is light, you’re still accepting a conviction. That record can affect:

• Employment opportunities
• Immigration status
• Professional licenses
• Housing applications

Probation Terms and Violations

Many plea deals include strict probation terms. Failing to follow every condition (e.g., drug testing, travel restrictions) can result in additional charges or jail time, even if your original crime was nonviolent.

Waiver of Trial Rights

By accepting a plea, you give up your right to a jury trial, to confront witnesses, and to present evidence. Once your plea is entered, it’s extremely difficult to reverse.

Additional Consequences

Some plea deals have consequences beyond the courtroom. For example:

• Sex offense registration
• Loss of gun rights
• Deportation for non-citizens

That’s why every plea deal’s risks and benefits must be fully evaluated.

How Plea Bargaining Works

The Los Angeles Superior Court is the largest trial court system in the U.S., with significant case backlogs and pressure to move cases quickly. As a result, prosecutors frequently make early plea offers, sometimes before all the evidence is available.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we know how to navigate this system. We’ve worked with deputy DAs across LA County, and we understand how plea deals are structured in different courthouses, from Clara Shortridge Foltz downtown to Van Nuys, Compton, and Airport Court.

Key Points to Remember

• Judges must approve all plea deals under California Penal Code § 1192.5.
• A judge may reject a deal if they believe it’s too lenient or too harsh.
• Alternative programs like pretrial diversion may be negotiated for first-time or nonviolent offenders.

Reasons to Consider Accepting a Plea Deal?

A plea deal may the right option for you when:

• The evidence against you is strong (e.g., video, DNA, credible witnesses)
• You are facing mandatory minimum sentences if convicted
• You have prior convictions that could trigger sentence enhancements
• The prosecutor offers a clear benefit, such as reduction to a misdemeanor
• You are eligible for diversion or rehabilitation programs

Possible Red Flags to Consider

Rejecting a deal may be the right move if:

• The plea still results in a felony conviction with no benefit.
• You are being asked to plead guilty to something you didn’t do.
• The prosecutor won’t offer alternative sentencing.
• The plea includes overreaching probation terms.
• You are confident in your defense strategy or alibi.
• The evidence against you is weak or circumstantial.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we’ve had clients reject plea deals and go on to win outright acquittals because we exposed flaws in the prosecution’s case.

Things to Consider Before Accepting a Plea Deal

Before entering a plea, make sure your defense attorney helps you answer:

• What are the immigration consequences?
• Will I have a felony or misdemeanor on my record?
• Can this conviction be expunged later?
• What happens if I violate probation?
• Am I eligible for diversion, community service, or home detention?
• What are the long-term impacts on my job, housing, or education?

If your lawyer can’t clearly explain the pros and cons of the plea, or they aren’t negotiating for a better offer, it may be time to find new representation.

Speak With an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, you’ll have a whole team of former prosecutors, top-tier negotiators, and courtroom veterans fighting for your best outcome.

Our firm has successfully resolved high-profile and complex cases throughout Los Angeles County. Whether your case involves a strike felony, white-collar charges, or a sensitive allegation, we know how to assess your risk and negotiate from a position of strength.

Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP at (213) 688-0460 to learn more today.

We’ll help you make the right choice for your future.