Plea in Abeyance: Tips for Your Case

In the state of Utah, if you are arrested on criminal charges, you can choose to plead guilty, not guilty or no contest. However, there is another option known as a plea in abeyance. It’s important to know what this means and how it can be used in your case.

Whereas the terms “guilty” and “not guilty” are self-explanatory, a plea in abeyance is not quite as simple. If you choose to go with this option, a plea in abeyance means that the criminal charges brought forth against you are dismissed in exchange for meeting certain terms set forth by the judge in your case.

In addition, when you use a plea in abeyance, you also have the option of not having the case dismissed; it can also be used to reduce the charges against you. That means if you have been charged with a felony offense, the charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor, which is a lesser charge.

There are certain requirements needed for entering a plea in abeyance in a criminal case. However, it’s important to know that not everyone can enter such a plea. It is also considered a onetime offer for individuals who don’t have a prior criminal record. Also, those charged with a few specific crimes can enter a plea in abeyance. In most cases, this includes minor traffic offenses. However, certain offenses require going before a judge and may include minor drug offenses, trespassing, some weapons crimes, soliciting or engaging in prostitution, some sex offenses not involving a minor under 14, assault, stalking and harassment.

If you have been arrested on criminal charges in Utah and wish to enter a plea of abeyance, you need Howard Lewis & Petersen, a Provo UT criminal defense law firm, on your side. Contact Howard Lewis & Petersen immediately to discuss your case with an attorney at the Provo UT criminal defense law firm.