A process whereby the prosecutor and the defendant's attorney agree for the defendant to plead guilty in exchange for concessions is called what?

• A. Arraignment
• B. Plea bargaining
• C. Information
• D. Grand jury

Answer: (B)

Plea bargaining is the negotiation between the prosecutor and the defense in which the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for concessions from the prosecutor, such as reduced charges, a lighter sentence, or dismissal of some counts. This resolves the case without a full trial and can provide certainty for the defendant and efficiency for the system. The judge must ensure the agreement is voluntary and will usually accept it as part of the sentencing process. Arraignment is merely the court appearance where charges are read and pleas are entered; an information is a formal charging document filed by the prosecutor; a grand jury determines whether there is enough evidence to indict.