Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington
mistrial
district court in thurston cty wa.
miisdemeanor theft charge
my public defender and i agreed to a trial. then his assistant had me plead guilty to the judge.
i had to hold up my hand and stop the whole process.
is this malfeasance on the part of the pd?
is this wrong?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: mistrial
Well, there are a number of points here. One, people, including you, are allowed to change their minds. So, although it might have seemed good to have a trial at first it could later seem like a good idea to arrange a plea bargain. So, there is nothing inately wrong with this. However, if you were deceived or coerced in some fashion that would be wrong. I am glad you had the fortitutde to stop the proceeding before you plead guilty.
Basically, your attorney and/or his assistant may feel strongly that the evidence is against you and that you will lose at trial. So, in serving your interest they will strongly try to convince you, again and again, to accept a plea bargain that will result in a smaller penalty for you. However, the finally decision is yours so you must listen to them and explain that you understand but that you have a right to a trial and that is what you want. If you have any further question contact me directly.
At your service,
Related Questions & Answers
-
Subpoena of a minor I have a minor foster child who was subpoena'd to testify... Asked 4/27/07, 1:02 pm in United States Washington Criminal Law
-
Extadition I have 2 class felony warrents now 1 3rd degree assalt involving an... Asked 4/26/07, 5:23 pm in United States Washington Criminal Law
-
Illegal search If you are illegally searched and property is seized: knife,... Asked 4/23/07, 12:21 pm in United States Washington Criminal Law
-
Spanking children in wa. state is spanking legal in the home Asked 4/22/07, 4:32 pm in United States Washington Criminal Law