What Happens When You Change Your Plea to Guilty?

Your plea of guilty is not a decision to be taken lightly. You'll be pleading guilty to the charge. Think about what everything could happen. Your conviction on a plea of guilty will entail things like monetary fines, probation, or jail time. Contact denton county criminal defense attorneys prior to doing it. They would be able to tell you what to expect.

1. Notify the Court:

You must notify the court that you want to alter your plea. This is done by filing a formal motion. Your attorney will typically draw and file the motion for you in most cases. If you don't have an attorney, you can ask the court clerk how it's done. All courts have different procedures for handling plea changes.

2. Request a Plea Hearing:

The judge will then order a plea hearing once you make the request. The judge will ask you questions at the hearing. The judge wishes to confirm that you fully understand what you are doing. You must assure the judge that you are voluntarily entering the plea change. The judge may also ask whether anyone forced you to enter a guilty plea.

3. Know the Consequences:

When you plead guilty, the judge will sentence you. The judge may immediately pronounce you guilty or defer the judgment. The sentence depends on the charges and your criminal record. You can receive a lighter sentence if you obey the court. Your attorney can negotiate to receive lighter punishments in certain cases.

4. Negotiate a Plea Deal:

In most cases, your lawyer can negotiate a plea bargain. A plea bargain is when you plead guilty to a lesser charge. It can protect you from severe sentences. Prosecutors offer deals so they don't have to spend as much time and money. If you don't have a lawyer, you can request the judge for guidance. However, having a lawyer increases the chances of you receiving a good deal.

5. Sign Documents as Necessary:

You will be asked to sign official documents if the court approves your plea modification. The documents confirm that you are agreeing to the plea and its consequences. The judge will read through all of them prior to you signing your plea. Read carefully through all documents. If you don't comprehend any segment of the documents, consult with your attorney.

6. Attend Sentencing:

After pleading guilty, the next step is sentencing. The judge will announce the final decision on your case. This may include jail time, fines, community service, or probation. Some cases allow for alternative sentencing, such as rehabilitation programs. Your lawyer can argue for a lighter sentence based on your situation.

7. Impact on Your Record:

A plea of guilt will stay on your criminal record. This can affect employment, housing, and future cases involving the law. In some cases, you may be able to have the record expunged in the future. Expungement removes the conviction from public records. Find out if this is an option for you from your lawyer.

8. Get Legal Help:

Pleading guilty can have long-term effects on your life. You require proper guidance to handle this procedure. Rockwall County criminal defense attorneys can inform you regarding your rights. They can also try to reduce punishments. A lawyer makes sure that you do not make any mistakes during the process.

It is not simple to alter your plea to guilty. It affects your future in so many ways. You should know the consequences beforehand before making up your mind. Always seek legal advice to ensure that you are making the right choice. The court will inform you, but having an attorney ensures better outcomes.