Charged With a Crime? Know Your Options Before You Plead.
Smart, strategic plea negotiation from an experienced Missouri defense lawyer.
If you're facing criminal charges, you may be offered a plea bargain—a deal from the prosecution to plead guilty or no contest in exchange for reduced charges or a lighter sentence. While a plea can be the right choice in some cases, accepting a deal too quickly—or without the right legal advice—can have lifelong consequences.
At Ernst Law LLC, attorneys Sarah Ernst and Jason Mullikin help clients facing criminal charges throughout Central Missouri evaluate plea offers and understand the potential consequences of accepting or rejecting an agreement. The firm reviews the evidence, available defenses, and terms of any proposed plea so clients can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
What Is a Plea Bargain?
A plea bargain is an agreement between the defense and prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty (or no contest) in exchange for:
A reduced charge (e.g., felony reduced to misdemeanor)
A lighter sentence (e.g., probation instead of jail)
The dismissal of other charges
Avoiding the uncertainty of a trial
Most criminal cases in Missouri are resolved through plea agreements. But that doesn’t mean you should take the first offer—or any offer—without a skilled defense attorney reviewing every detail.
When Is a Plea Bargain a Good Idea?
Plea bargains can be beneficial if:
The evidence against you is strong
You want to avoid the risk of a harsher sentence at trial
The deal allows you to avoid a felony conviction or jail time
You want to resolve the case quickly to move forward
However, every plea comes with trade-offs—such as a criminal record, probation terms, immigration consequences, or loss of rights. Sarah helps clients weigh those risks carefully.
Ernst Law’s Approach to Plea Negotiation
Ernst Law does not push clients toward quick deals. The firm approaches plea negotiations with:
Thorough case analysis — What does the evidence actually show, and what defenses or legal issues may affect the case?
Strategic negotiation — The attorneys evaluate proposed plea terms and negotiate based on the facts, evidence, and applicable law.
Local experience — Ernst Law regularly handles criminal matters in courts throughout Central Missouri.
Client-focused decision making — The decision whether to accept or reject a plea belongs to the client after understanding the potential consequences and available options.
If you have already entered a guilty plea and believe there was a serious legal problem with your case, different options may be available depending on the circumstances. Ernst Law also represents clients throughout Missouri in criminal appeals and post-conviction relief matters.
Serving Central Missouri with Serious Criminal Defense
Ernst Law LLC represents clients facing criminal charges throughout Central Missouri, including Jefferson City, Columbia, and surrounding communities. If you are considering a plea offer or have questions about the options in your criminal case, contact Ernst Law to discuss your situation with an attorney.
Talk to a Missouri Defense Attorney Before Accepting a Plea
If you’ve been offered a plea bargain, don’t sign anything until you’ve talked with a defense lawyer. Our lawyers can help you understand your options and fight for better ones.
📍 Based in Jefferson City | Serving Central Missouri & Statewide Appeals
📞 (573) 415-2441
📧 (legal@ernstlawllc.com)
