What Is Plea Bargaining?

A plea bargain is a negotiated settlement in a criminal case. It means the prosecutor and defendant have come to an agreement they both find acceptable to avoid having a trial. A plea bargain may include reduced or dismissed charges. 

If you are not represented by an attorney you may be tempted to discuss your case with the prosecutor to try to persuade him or her to reduce or dismiss the charge. This is usually a mistake. Anything you say to the prosecutor regarding your case that might be incriminating can be used against you later in court.