“Cop a plea” is a colloquial term often used in legal contexts to describe the act of pleading guilty to a lesser offense or accepting a plea bargain in exchange for a reduced sentence or other concessions. It involves the defendant admitting guilt to a crime in order to avoid a more severe punishment or to resolve the case without going to trial. This strategy is often employed when the evidence against the defendant is strong or when the potential consequences of going to trial are deemed too risky. “Copping a plea” is a negotiation process between the defendant and the prosecution, facilitated by their respective attorneys and approved by the court.
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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
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