Why are some cases plea bargained?
There are not enough DA's, judges, courtrooms, or trial days on the calendar to put all the thousands of cases every year in the 14th Judicial District before a jury. For those defendants taken to trial, or for those who plead guilty before a trial, there are not enough jail cells in the state to hold them.

These practical demands plus the defendant's speedy trial rights, the seriousness of the cases, the strengths or weaknesses of cases, the victim's wishes, public safety, punishment, rehabilitation, and deterrence are all interests that are considered by the DA when deciding how to proceed. Most cases are resolved in a relatively short time with a plea agreement designed to balance the competing interests involved.

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1. What does the District Attorney's (DA) Office do?
2. Can I plea by mail?
3. What are the procedures for getting my police report?
4. What happens when I come to court on a traffic ticket?
5. How do I change my bond conditions?
6. What does the County Attorney do?
7. If I have a traffic ticket, can I discuss my ticket with the Deputy District Attorney prior to the court date?
8. What is a traffic infraction?
9. How do I change my court date?
10. What if I want to report a crime?
11. Why are some cases plea bargained?
12. How do I get a Public Defender or other legal representation, when I am accused of a crime?