How Plea Deals Work in Murder Cases: What You Need To Know Before Accepting An Offer
Prosecutors often offer plea deals to avoid the time, cost, and unpredictability of a trial. At first glance, a plea deal may feel like a way to regain some control. However, deciding whether to accept one shouldn't happen without fully understanding the consequences.
As a criminal defense attorney in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Attorney Zak Newman has worked with clients who have faced some of the most serious accusations imaginable. When someone is charged with a violent crime, such as murder, the consequences can often be life-altering.
Zak Newman, Attorney at Law, can break down how plea deals work in Tennessee murder cases, what prosecutors consider when offering them, what accepting a deal actually means, and why working with a criminal defense attorney can be critical before making any decision.
What a Plea Deal Really Means
A plea deal is an agreement between the defense and prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty or no contest in exchange for a benefit. That benefit could be a lesser charge, a reduced sentence, or the removal of more serious penalties, such as life without parole or the death penalty.
In murder cases, plea deals aren't offered casually. Prosecutors may present them if they face challenges in proving the case or if the victim’s family prefers closure over a trial. These agreements are typically calculated, high-stakes decisions, and the results may define the rest of the accused's life.
In some cases, the accused may initially push back on plea discussions, thinking it automatically means accepting blame. However, in practice, a plea deal is often a strategic choice—one that avoids the uncertainty of trial and secures a known outcome, even if it’s not ideal.
What Types of Plea Deals Are Possible in Murder Cases?
Tennessee law recognizes several levels of homicide, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, voluntary manslaughter, and criminally negligent homicide. Prosecutors consider the nature of the crime, available evidence, and intent when selecting charges. Some common plea deal structures in murder cases may include:
First-degree murder reduced to second-degree murder: This deal may eliminate the possibility of life without parole or capital punishment.
Murder reduced to voluntary manslaughter: This is often offered if the death resulted from a heated altercation without prior intent.
Murder reduced to reckless homicide: This is rare, but possible if the state cannot prove the required mental state for murder.
Same charge, but lesser sentence recommendation: Sometimes the prosecution sticks to the original charge but agrees to push for a lighter sentence.
When reviewing these options, your attorney should focus on whether the facts support the charge, whether the state can prove each element, and whether the deal offers a clear advantage compared to trial risks.
Factors That Influence a Plea Deal
Not every murder case comes with a plea offer. Prosecutors may take a firm stance, particularly in high-profile or extremely violent cases. That said, several factors can affect whether a plea deal gets offered and what terms it includes:
Strength of the evidence: Cases with limited forensic support or unreliable witnesses are more likely to involve negotiation.
Defendant’s background: A clean record, evidence of remorse, or youth can influence a more favorable outcome.
Victim’s family input: While the prosecution makes final decisions, the family’s position carries considerable weight.
Media attention and public pressure: High-visibility cases often reduce the prosecution’s willingness to reduce charges.
In these cases, my job is to help the client understand how each factor plays into the offer and to give a realistic picture of what’s likely to happen next.
How The Process Works In Tennessee
In Tennessee, plea talks can begin at various points, typically after arrest, during pretrial hearings, or even during trial. Here’s a general timeline of how plea negotiations unfold:
Prosecutor extends an offer: This might happen early if the state sees risks in its case.
Defense evaluates the deal: Your attorney will go over the full scope of the evidence, sentencing laws, and what’s at stake to help the client weigh the offer.
Negotiations continue: If the original offer doesn’t serve the client’s best interests, your attorney can counter with alternatives.
Court review: Once both sides agree, the court will be notified and may approve the deal.
Plea hearing takes place: At the hearing, the judge will confirm whether the defendant understands and accepts the terms. If accepted, the agreement becomes final.
When considering a plea deal, you should understand that once the plea is entered, you likely lose the right to appeal and must serve the sentence as agreed.
What You Give Up By Pleading Guilty
Agreeing to a plea deal brings certainty, but it also carries serious consequences. Accepting an agreement means waiving several constitutional rights, such as:
The right to trial by jury
The right to confront witnesses
The right to remain silent
The right to appeal most legal issues
In murder cases, even a reduced charge can carry decades behind bars. That’s why it's important to have a conversation with a criminal defense attorney who can help you weigh the long-term impact, not just the short-term relief of avoiding trial.
Risks of Going To Trial Versus Accepting a Plea Deal
Sometimes, the accused may express a strong desire to go to trial, particularly when they believe they’ve been wrongly charged. Others may be more willing to accept responsibility for a lighter sentence. However, both options involve risk.
For example, going to trial grants you the opportunity to challenge the evidence publicly. This could result in acquittal, but it might also lead to life in prison or capital punishment. On the other hand, accepting a plea deal means giving up certain rights, but it typically limits sentencing exposure and offers a predetermined outcome.
Every case is different. Your attorney cannot promise a specific outcome, but it's important to work with them to identify your potential options and the likely consequences of each.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
One of the most damaging errors you can make is rushing into a plea deal without understanding it. Some common mistakes you should avoid when considering a plea deal include the following.
Taking the first deal without a full review
Misunderstanding parole eligibility
Assuming a plea leads to quick release
Not asking how the conviction affects your future rights (e.g., voting, employment, firearm ownership)
Attorney Zak Newman has worked with numerous individuals who didn’t realize their plea deal came with a mandatory minimum sentence they couldn’t reduce or appeal. Those situations are often avoidable when you have proper legal support early in your case.
How a Defense Attorney Can Help
Prosecutors handle murder cases often. If you don’t have a skilled criminal defense attorney by your side, you're already starting from a weaker position. Walking into plea negotiations alone is one of the biggest risks you can take.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand your position under Tennessee law. This involves reviewing discovery, confirming sentencing ranges, and determining whether a trial or a deal offers a more strategic path forward. Their goal shouldn't be to push you into a plea deal. Instead, they should help you make informed choices that you won’t regret.
Contact an Experienced Attorney Today
While a plea deal in a murder case might offer a way to avoid the worst possible outcome, it also carries serious consequences that don’t always show up on paper. You will typically be required to give up rights, time, and sometimes the ability to contest the facts in court. Before signing anything, consult with a criminal defense attorney who understands Tennessee law and can help you assess the legal, practical, and personal implications.
If you’re facing a murder charge or your loved one is considering a plea in Chattanooga, Tennessee, reach out to an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. A thorough review, legal guidance, and strategic planning can make all the difference—long before you step foot in a courtroom. Located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Zak Newman, Attorney at Law, serves clients throughout the surrounding areas. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.