Plea Bargaining and Withdrawal of Charges

In a criminal case, an important step often takes place far from the courtroom: the negotiation between your lawyer and the prosecutor.

A Negotiation That Requires Preparation

Your lawyer analyzes the evidence, gathers the factors that work in your favour (context, background, steps you have taken on your own) and sets objectives with you that reflect your priorities. They then meet with the prosecutor to present their arguments.

Possible Outcomes

The withdrawal of the charges, where the evidence or the circumstances justify it;
The withdrawal of certain counts, often the most serious ones, in exchange for a guilty plea to a less serious count;
A joint submission for a more lenient sentence;
In the case of a repeat offence, an undertaking not to file the notice of repeat offence, which can avoid a heavier minimum sentence, or even imprisonment.

No agreement is reached without your consent: your lawyer presents each offer to you and advises you before any decision is made.

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Plea Bargaining and Withdrawal of Charges