Plea Information
Plea Information
Defendant's Plea
Your decision concerning which plea to enter is very important. You should read the following explanation of all three types of pleas and think carefully before deciding.
You have the right to be represented by an attorney. You have the right to a public trial. You have the right to a jury trial. You have the right to a speedy trial. You have the right to pre-trial discovery, including any evidence that may aid your defense at trial. You have the right to confront the witnesses against you. You have the right to subpoena witnesses to testify on your behalf. You have the right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You should contact an attorney if you have questions or concerns regarding this issue.
Plea of Guilty or No Contest
- A plea of "guilty" means you admit that you committed the offense filed and that it is prohibited by law.
- A plea of "no contest" means you do not contest the State's charge against you.
- Entering a plea of guilty or no contest may result in a conviction appearing on your criminal record or driving record.
- If you plead "guilty" or "no contest," you will be found guilty and should be prepared to pay the fine.
- Notice: A plea of "guilty" or "no contest" waives all of the trial rights discussed earlier
- The Transportation Code provides that the Texas Department of Public Safety may suspend Defendant's driver's license following a conviction for certain offenses.
Plea of Not Guilty
- A plea of "not guilty" means that you deny guilt and require the State to prove the offense filed against you.
- A plea of "not guilty" does not waive your rights. It does not prevent a plea of "guilty" or "no contest" at a later time.