The Plea Bargains In The American Criminal Justice System

One of the cornerstones of the American Criminal Justice System the sixth amendment- the right to a trial by a jury of one's peers. However, to the surprise of this audience, over 95 percent of all cases resulting in criminal convictions, in this country, never reach the ears of a jury, but instead are settled by plea bargain agreements. Plea bargains are legally binding agreements, in which the defendant exchanges guilt for a lighter sentence or reduced charge (Pollock, 2019, p.262). In the PBS documentary, The Plea, the plea bargain process is examined thoroughly in numerous criminal cases from drug indictments to capital murder. This process is highlighted, as it, is spearheaded by judges, defense attorneys and prosecutors, who are
The use of plea bargains to resolve criminal court cases often places in jeopardy the constitutional rights of defendants. The pressure to admit guilt for the purpose of being released versus opting for a jury trial is the primary reason this form of justice is utilized. Additional reasons for plea bargaining agreements are: the overcrowding of courts, if pleas were not allowed, courts would be overwhelmed and forcibly closed. The caseload of prosecutors', with fewer trials, prosecutors’ can more effectively indict and focus on the most serious cases, and plea bargains save defendants money by not having to adequately defend themselves at trial. Although, plea bargains are critical to the judiciary process, the plea bargains presented in the film, triggered severe ethical dilemmas and ultimately postured the defendants for a lifetime
Pasty Jarrett was just as astounding. In 1973, Ms. Jarrett and a friend took a road trip to New York. During their trip unbeknownst to Ms. Jarrett, her friend robbed and murdered a gas station employee. It would be three years after this murder before Ms. Jarrett would be arrested as an accomplice to the murder. The evidence in this case was weak against Ms. Jarrett, as there were no fingerprints or blood found. The only evidence was a single eyewitness testimony, which was unclear, that placed Ms. Jarrett at the scene of the crime. Ms. Jarret refused to admit guilt. To avoid trial, Ms. Jarrett was offered a plea bargain, she refused. Armed with belief in the American justice system and truth on her side, she proceeded forward. Ms. Jarret would be tried, convicted and sentenced to 25 years in