Plea Deals

As the trial date approaches, the prosecutor may reach out to you with a plea deal. A plea deal is an agreement between you and the prosecutor. The agreement avoids trial and holds you responsible for the crime(s) committed. Generally, the prosecutor will offer a shorter period of incarceration, a period of probation, and require drug or alcohol treatment. Mental health counseling may also be required.

Before accepting a plea deal, you should read the proposed plea agreement carefully. If there are questions, they should be addressed with the prosecutor before the document is signed. However, keep in mind that the prosecutor is not your lawyer or your friend. Once signed, the document is binding on both the Tribe and the defendant.