What does no contest mean

This means that while you do not plead innocent, you also do not admit guilt. You are not disputing the facts of the case, but you also do not admit to breaking the law. For the latter, for example, your taillight is out and you receive a ticket. You repair your vehicle, thus resolving the issue. Pleading innocent is not an option as your taillight was not working at the time. But, you may wish to avoid having an admission of guilt that could be used against you in future civil court cases.

By repairing the problem, you have done your due diligence as a citizen. So, by pleading no contest, you are not disputing the charges but also do not directly admit to guilt. No contest pleas are not always an available option. The judge assigned to your case will determine if you can enter a no contest plea in the first place.

Generally, you have a choice between pleading guilty and no contest. If you are offered a plea bargain, however, the prosecutor may insist that you plead guilty rather than no contest.

In exchange for your change of plea, the prosecutor would recommend a reduced charge or penalty. A no contest plea is generally not acceptable in federal court, as U. During your first court appearance, you will most likely plead not guilty—this initial plea gives your defense attorney time to assess your case and potentially negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor. If your lawyer decides a no contest plea is the best option, your case will not go to trial.

By going to trial, you risk facing the maximum penalty for the crime you have been charged with—sometimes, it is in your best interest to avoid that risk and plead no contest instead. Pleading no contest or nolo contendere means you admit no guilt for the crime, but the court can determine the punishment.

Through this conversation, the judge gains a better perspective on the situation. The defendant has some possibility of getting a less harsh sentence than might be handed down after a jury trial. Restrictions on pleading no contest vary between states, and in some jurisdictions it is prohibited. It is unlikely that the court will allow you to enter a nolo contendere plea while vigorously denying your guilt to the media.

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