When you are faced with criminal prosecution, you could take your case to trial, or if offered, accept a plea bargain in exchange for a guilty plea. However, going to trial can be risky since the fate of that trial is in the hands of a jury, which will decide guilt or innocence. Most defendants will accept a plea agreement rather than taking the risk of a jury trial.

What are the pros and cons of plea bargaining for the defense attorney, prosecution, judge, and of course, the defendant? Are defendants being coerced into accepting a plea deal? Explain.