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Criminal Defense » Plea Negotiations
If you are considering a plea in a criminal case, you need to understand exactly what you are giving up—and what you are receiving in return. At DiSalvo Law, we negotiate from strength, using careful investigation and motion practice to push for outcomes that protect your future, not just close your file.
Most criminal cases are resolved through plea negotiations, not trials. The quality of those negotiations can mean the difference between jail and probation, a felony and a misdemeanor, or a conviction and a dismissal. At DiSalvo Law, we handle plea discussions as part of a larger defense strategy, not just as a quick way to close a case.
We explain your options clearly, including how any proposed plea may affect immigration, employment, licensing, and your ability to later seek expungement or record clearing.
Effective plea negotiations start with leverage. We build that leverage by:
When prosecutors know we are ready to litigate, they are more likely to discuss meaningful reductions instead of token offers.
Plea negotiations can address much more than guilty or not guilty. We may be able to negotiate for:
The goal is to resolve the case in a way that makes sense for your long-term future, not just the next court date.
Timing is critical. In many cases, the best opportunities for a favorable plea arise early—before the prosecution becomes locked into a position or before certain deadlines pass. At the same time, rushing into the first offer on the table can lead to unnecessary consequences.
We balance these considerations by moving quickly to understand the evidence, then negotiating from a position of knowledge and strength.
Our approach to plea negotiations is strategic and client-centered:
• Learn your priorities and risk tolerance from the outset
• Evaluate the law, the facts, and the likely results at trial
• Develop fallback positions and alternative proposals in advance
• Communicate clearly about every offer and counteroffer
• Keep the option of trial open and viable unless and until you choose otherwise
We will never pressure you into a plea you do not understand or trust. The decision is always yours—we make sure it is an informed one.
Attorney Mario DiSalvo has represented clients in serious criminal cases for nearly three decades. His background in trial work and post-conviction litigation gives him insight into how local courts operate and what it takes to protect clients when everything is on the line.
Learn more about our broader criminal defense practice »
We handle plea negotiations in criminal cases arising from courts across Fresno and the Central Valley, including:
Many clients first find us through our broader Criminal Defense hub, where we explain how all of our practice areas fit together.
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DiSalvo Law
5151 N Palm Ave
Suite 100
Fresno, CA 93704
(559) 442-1552
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What is a plea bargain?
A plea bargain is an agreement between you and the prosecution in which you plead guilty or no contest to certain charges in exchange for a specific outcome, such as reduced charges or a lighter sentence.
Do I have to accept a plea offer?
No. You always have the right to reject a plea offer and take your case to trial. Our job is to explain the risks and benefits so you can decide.
Can a plea agreement keep a conviction off my record?
Some negotiated resolutions can avoid a conviction, such as diversion or deferred entry of judgment. Others may position you for later expungement.
Will the judge always follow the plea deal?
In most cases, the judge will follow a negotiated agreement, but not always. We discuss the type of plea and how much discretion the judge retains before you decide.
When should I talk to a lawyer about a plea offer?
You should talk to a lawyer before speaking to the prosecutor about any plea. Once an agreement is entered, it can be very difficult to undo.
If you are weighing a plea offer or expect negotiations to begin soon, do not make that decision alone. Contact DiSalvo Law today for a confidential consultation about your options in plea discussions and trial.
