A “no contest” plea deal is often used as a plot device in the media, but the use of this particular plea is pretty rare.

There are a few recent cases where it’s come up.

Here’s what you need to know.

What a No Contest Plea Means

It means you’re neither admitting guilt nor declaring innocence. You’re simply accepting the charges. 

A “no contest” plea provides very few advantages to a criminal defendant in Houston, TX. While it means you are not admitting guilt or fault for the alleged crime, it nevertheless leads to a criminal trial just like a guilty plea does. A no contest plea will not lead to a lighter sentence, nor will it lead to more reasonable doubt. 

They are not allowed in Texas felony cases. Plus, a Texas judge or prosecutor may refuse the no contest plea. A no contest plea may also bar you from accepting a plea bargain later, though in some cases prosecutors allow a no contest plea as part of the plea bargain. 

While we don’t think rushing you to a plea bargain is in your best interests, there are specific situations where a plea bargain is going to be the best option in your case. 

Why use a no contest plea? 

The only thing it protects you from are civil cases which can arise from the same set of circumstances. A no contest plea cannot be used as evidence against you in a civil trial. This is one reason why they’re banned in felony cases. Texas courts want to prevent you from dodging civil responsibility in cases where the damages are likely to be very high. 

If you are innocent, you should usually plead “innocent”, but it’s important to ask your Houston, TX criminal lawyer for specific guidance in your case. 

Never make a plea without talking to a criminal lawyer!

You should have a criminal lawyer in place prior to your arraignment, which is where you enter your official plea into the court system.

You want a lawyer who is going to give your case the full consideration and investigation it deserves. Our team is ready to help.

If you’re in trouble, don’t wait. Call Greco Neyland today. 

See also:

Why Houston, TX Defense Lawyers Accept Guilty Clients

5 Mistakes You Need to Avoid in Your Houston, TX Criminal Case 

How Do Plea Bargains Work in Houston, TX? 

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A “no contest” plea deal is often used as a plot device in the media, but the use of this particular plea is pretty rare.

There are a few recent cases where it’s come up.

Here’s what you need to know.

What a No Contest Plea Means

It means you’re neither admitting guilt nor declaring innocence. You’re simply accepting the charges. 

A “no contest” plea provides very few advantages to a criminal defendant in Houston, TX. While it means you are not admitting guilt or fault for the alleged crime, it nevertheless leads to a criminal trial just like a guilty plea does. A no contest plea will not lead to a lighter sentence, nor will it lead to more reasonable doubt. 

They are not allowed in Texas felony cases. Plus, a Texas judge or prosecutor may refuse the no contest plea. A no contest plea may also bar you from accepting a plea bargain later, though in some cases prosecutors allow a no contest plea as part of the plea bargain. 

While we don’t think rushing you to a plea bargain is in your best interests, there are specific situations where a plea bargain is going to be the best option in your case. 

Why use a no contest plea? 

The only thing it protects you from are civil cases which can arise from the same set of circumstances. A no contest plea cannot be used as evidence against you in a civil trial. This is one reason why they’re banned in felony cases. Texas courts want to prevent you from dodging civil responsibility in cases where the damages are likely to be very high. 

If you are innocent, you should usually plead “innocent”, but it’s important to ask your Houston, TX criminal lawyer for specific guidance in your case. 

Never make a plea without talking to a criminal lawyer!

You should have a criminal lawyer in place prior to your arraignment, which is where you enter your official plea into the court system.

You want a lawyer who is going to give your case the full consideration and investigation it deserves. Our team is ready to help.

If you’re in trouble, don’t wait. Call Greco Neyland today. 

See also:

Why Houston, TX Defense Lawyers Accept Guilty Clients

5 Mistakes You Need to Avoid in Your Houston, TX Criminal Case 

How Do Plea Bargains Work in Houston, TX? 

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Rated 5/5 based on 52 customer reviews

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Kenny McKee
Kenny McKee
17:11 11 Dec 18
They did a great job getting rid of my parking and speeding tickets. I recommended them to my friends and family. And they've also experienced the same professionalism and great quality service at an affordable price.
Brian Gomez
Brian Gomez
16:50 11 Dec 18
Dustan and his staff create the best team. They know the law, and made me feel like I was involved and understood everything that was going on. Dustan took the time to explain to me and my family what we could expect, and then led the way.
Heidi Etter
Heidi Etter
15:33 11 Dec 18
Dustan and his staff helped handle my divorce proceedings. He was incredibly knowledgeable and on top of everything I needed to do. Everything was handled in a timely and professional manner. I’m very thankful for his expertise in helping me to manage a difficult situation.
Jordan Bradshaw
Jordan Bradshaw
15:31 11 Dec 18
The staff at Greco Neyland helped a friend of mine on a case. Everyone was so nice and friendly! I definitely recommend them to anyone who needs someone knowledgeable who also really cares about their clients.
Justin Washington
Justin Washington
23:12 06 Nov 18
Dunstan and the staff at Greco Neyland are truly professional and very helpful and understanding through the process. I was facing a felony case and Dunstan got it no billed . I definitely recommend this firm if you want a lawyer that’s going to defend and fight for you.
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