The deal making stage
Pre-trial conferences can be a useful tool to settle some cases. The defense attorney engages in plea and sentence negotiations with the prosecuting attorney.
A deal may include:
- Reduction of charges (reduced to lesser offense)
- Reduction of counts brought forth
- Less punishment for the same charge
- Alternative sentencing
- Make arrangements for bond
Common motions may include:
- Suppression of evidence
- Dismissal of charges
- Speedy trial
- Strike counts
- Compel discovery