FAQ

If I’m charged with a federal crime, should I plead or go to trial?

Q: If I am charged with a federal crime, should I plead guilty or go to trial?

A: Individuals accused of a federal offense often wonder whether they should accept a plea agreement or proceed to trial. In most cases, the honest answer is that no responsible lawyer can make that determination without first learning far more about the case. It is concerning how quickly some attorneys recommend going to trial—often accompanied by a quoted fee—while others immediately suggest accepting a plea and cooperating with the government to reduce a potential sentence.

Q: How do I determine whether a plea or a trial is the better option?

A: Either course of action may be appropriate, but that decision can only be made after a thorough and careful examination of your case. A qualified lawyer must study the applicable law, the government’s evidence, the facts, and any available defenses before offering meaningful guidance. You want a detailed, comprehensive assessment of whether the government can prove its case and secure a conviction at trial. 

Q: What should I look for in a lawyer if I’m facing this decision?

A: If you have been accused of a federal crime, it is essential to have an attorney who will diligently review the facts, the law, and your defense before advising you on whether to go to trial or accept a plea. This decision is too significant—and its consequences too serious—to be made without a complete understanding of your legal position. 

If I’m charged with a federal crime, should I plead or go to trial?

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