Why do most legal cases never go to trial?

Most civil cases don't go to trial because the settlements are faster, less expensive, and more predictable. It's no secret that the vast majority of criminal cases never go to trial. The prosecution may dismiss the charges, perhaps for lack of evidence. Sometimes, prosecutors decide not to re-file charges after the defendant of a serious crime prevails in the preliminary hearing.

And some defendants evade conviction through pre-trial motions, such as a motion to suppress evidence. However, most cases end under an agreement with the prosecution. While trials are an integral part of the criminal justice system, not all criminal cases go to trial. In fact, most cases are resolved through plea agreements, in which defendants agree to plead guilty or not to challenge them in exchange for a reduction in charges or a lighter sentence.

Conviction agreements offer efficiency and certainty, allowing both the prosecution and the defense to avoid the time and resources needed for a trial. However, the decision to go to trial ultimately lies with the defendant. If you're facing a medical malpractice case, working with a trusted Minneapolis medical malpractice attorney, such as Mark Perron of the Perron Law Office, can help you navigate the legal process and maximize your settlement. The information provided on this site does not constitute legal advice, does not constitute a lawyer recommendation service, and no confidential attorney-client relationship is or will be established through the use of of the site.

In one of Sevens Legal's latest YouTube videos, San Diego criminal lawyer Sue Gerard talks about the importance of going to trial and when it might be worth it, from the perspective of a legal professional. This page was approved by founding partner, Brad Banks, who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a criminal defense attorney. Some have suggested that the “disappearance” of the American trial represents a major crisis for the legal profession. If you are facing criminal charges in San Diego, it's crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Dawn Launiere
Dawn Launiere

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