In a plea bargain, what does a defendant agree to do?

In a plea bargain, a defendant typically agrees to plead guilty in exchange for a reduction in charges or a more lenient sentence. This process allows the defendant to negotiate with the prosecution, leading to a resolution that can be beneficial for both parties. By accepting a guilty plea, the defendant may avoid the uncertainties of a trial, including the possibility of receiving a harsher penalty if found guilty of all charges.

This agreement is often seen as practical: it conserves judicial resources and provides the defendant with a clearer understanding of the potential outcomes, as they can be assured of a more favorable resolution than what might occur through a trial. The guilty plea is a critical component of this negotiation, as it forms the basis for the concessions made by the prosecution, such as reducing charges or recommending a lighter sentence.