Why are some cases plea bargained?

There are not enough prosecutors, judges, courtrooms, or trial days on the calendar to put all the thousands of cases every year in Eaton County 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 following are all interests that are considered by the Prosecutor when deciding how to proceed:

  • Defendant's Speedy Trial Rights
  • Deterrence
  • Public Safety
  • Punishment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Seriousness of the Cases
  • Strengths or Weaknesses of Cases
  • Victim's Wishes

A plea agreement is always designed to balance these competing interests. Most cases are resolved in a relatively short time by the defendant's plea, many times a plea to the charged offense.

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1. How do get a criminal charge issued? Can I report a crime directly to the Prosecutor's office?
2. I am the victim. Can I drop the charge?
3. Can I issue counter-charges against someone?
4. How do I get my property back?
5. How do I get a copy of a police report? Is it free?
6. Where do I get court forms?
7. How do I get a copy of a person's criminal record? Is it free?
8. Can you tell me if a charge has been issued yet? Can you tell me if an arrest warrant exists?
9. Can you tell me a defendant's next court date?
10. I was the victim of a violent crime. Will the Prosecuting Attorney pay for my hospital bill and my lost wages, help me collect for pain and suffering, etc?
11. The defendant is not paying court-ordered restitution. Who can help me?
12. I was cheated by a contractor, shopkeeper or someone else who provides labor or services. Can the Prosecuting Attorney help me?
13. I want to work in your office. Do you have job openings? What is the pay scale?
14. How can I become an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney?
15. I have been subpoenaed to appear as a witness in a criminal case. Can I get witness fees? What if I can't attend on the date stated in the subpoena?
16. Is your job risky or dangerous?
17. I want a divorce. I also need help getting child support. Can the Prosecutor's office help me?
18. I want a restraining order to keep someone away from me. Will the Prosecuting Attorney do this for me?
19. Can I talk to Mr. Lloyd? I think he's the person who is working on my case since his name appears on my court documents.
20. How do I get a court-appointed attorney?
21. I am a defendant and I don't like the attorney who is representing me. Can I talk to Mr. Lloyd or one of the Assistant Prosecutors about my case?
22. Why are some cases plea bargained?
23. Where is Eaton County?
24. What if I have a question which is not answered in your FAQs?