Many factors control how a criminal case turns out. While statistics may say one thing, it’s never safe to assume your case will end in the most common way. After all, no outcome is guaranteed.
Still, it’s fair to want to know how the most common way criminal defense cases end, especially if you’ve been accused of a crime. Here are the possible results of a criminal case.
Possible Outcomes
Once charges have been filed, a criminal case is likely heading for one of the following outcomes. While these aren’t the only possibilities, the vast majority of cases end in one of these ways.
Dropped Charges
Charges can be dropped by the prosecutor who filed them. A prosecutor could drop charges due to new evidence, uncooperative witnesses or other factors.
Having the charges dropped doesn’t guarantee you won’t be charged again. Still, it can represent a win for you, depending on the circumstances.
Dismissal
Judges have the power to grant a Motion to Dismiss. The best-case scenario is a dismissal with prejudice. That means the judge decided the case in your favor and ruled that the same charges cannot be brought against you again.
A dismissal without prejudice leaves open the possibility that the charges will be brought again in connection with the alleged criminal activity. That could happen if new evidence comes to light. The prosecutor could also change the charges to something better supported by the evidence.
Not Guilty Verdict
Your case could go through the full trial and a judge or jury could conclude that you’re not guilty. This is a good result! You won’t have to serve a sentence, but it does require the full stress and work of the trial.
Guilty Verdict
This is a result you hope to never receive. After the stress of the trial, you’ve been found guilty of the charges and will be sentenced accordingly.
It’s important to note that some states, including Texas, have a trial rate of only 3% (according to an NPR article quoting the American Bar Association). So receiving a verdict in your case, whether guilty or not guilty, is actually somewhat unlikely.
So, what is the most common end to criminal cases? They usually end in plea deals.
Plea Deal
This is, by far, the most common result of criminal charges nationwide. According to that same NPR article, federal criminal court cases end in a plea bargain 98% of the time. While federal courts differ from state courts in many ways, plea bargains are common in both.
The Importance of Experienced Legal Guidance
A plea bargain can be a great result or a terrible one. It depends on the charges, the evidence, the jurisdiction, and countless other factors. Most importantly, it takes an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney to know whether a plea offer is worth considering.
Contact Our Team of Skilled Lawyers Today
At Lee & Wood, LP, our criminal defense lawyers handle felony and misdemeanor cases in Texas state courts. We also handle juvenile offense cases. If you’ve been charged with a crime, we can help you protect your rights. Contact us online or call 817-678-6771 to schedule a consultation.