California Correctional Lieutenant Practice Exam

What is a potential outcome of a plea bargain for a defendant?

1. A permanent criminal record with no possibility of parole

2. A chance to serve a reduced sentence for accepting guilt

3. An opportunity to contest charges in court

4. A guarantee of complete dismissal of all charges

The correct answer is: A chance to serve a reduced sentence for accepting guilt

A plea bargain is a negotiation between the defendant and the prosecution, typically wherein the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a more lenient sentence. This option reflects that by accepting a plea deal, the defendant often faces a reduced sentence compared to what they might receive if they were found guilty at trial. The plea bargain process allows for a reduction inthe severity of the charges or the punishment, which can significantly impact the defendant's future. It also conserves judicial resources, as it resolves cases more efficiently than going to trial. The opportunity for a reduced sentence makes plea bargains attractive to many defendants, especially if the evidence against them is strong. The other options do not accurately reflect typical outcomes associated with plea bargains; for instance, a permanent criminal record typically results from a conviction, and contesting charges or guaranteeing their dismissal would be alternatives to a plea agreement rather than potential outcomes.