A plea agreement is an agreement in which a defendant resolves criminal charges by entering a plea under stated terms.
The terms may address charges, sentencing recommendations, dismissed counts, restitution, cooperation, or other case-specific issues.
Why a plea agreement matters
Plea agreements resolve many criminal cases without trial. They can affect conviction records, sentencing exposure, appeal rights, immigration consequences, licensing, and future criminal history.
Courts usually require the plea to be knowing, voluntary, and supported by an adequate process.
Where a plea agreement appears
Plea agreements appear after arraignment, during plea negotiations, before sentencing, and in court hearings where the judge reviews the plea.
They may be written, placed on the record, or both depending on the court and case.
How it differs from nearby terms
A plea agreement is the negotiated resolution. Sentencing is the court process that determines punishment or conditions.
Arraignment is an earlier proceeding where charges are presented and a plea may first be entered.
Practical example
A defendant charged with multiple counts agrees to plead to one count in exchange for dismissal of others and a joint sentencing recommendation. The judge reviews the agreement before deciding whether to accept the plea.
Related Terms
Quick check
Question: Does a plea agreement usually resolve charges without a trial?
Answer: Yes. It is a negotiated criminal-case resolution involving a plea.