Verified by Licensed Bail Bond Professionals•Last updated: March 2026
Definition: A negotiated agreement between the prosecution and defense where the defendant pleads guilty (or nolo contendere) to a reduced charge or in exchange for a lighter sentence recommended by the prosecutor.
Category: Court Process · Statute: Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.171 · Source: Florida Legislature
How Plea Bargaining Works
- The prosecution and defense discuss the case, evidence, and possible outcomes
- The prosecutor offers a deal: plead to a lesser charge, or plead to the original charge for a recommended lighter sentence
- The defendant decides whether to accept or reject the offer
- If accepted, the plea is presented to the judge, who can accept or reject it
- If the judge accepts, the defendant is sentenced according to the agreement
What Happens to Bail After a Plea?
Once a plea is entered and the case is resolved, the bail bond is exonerated. This means:
- Cash bail is refunded to the payer (minus court fees)
- Surety bond obligations end; collateral is returned
- The co-signer is released from liability