admit or deny guilt but accept punishment as if guilty, and is often offered as a part of a plea bargain.

Defendants who believe themselves to be innocent may choose this plea when the expected cost of contesting the charge exceeds the cost of accepting the penalty. If the likely punishment is minor, such as a small fine, probation or community service, it can be cheaper, faster, and less disruptive to plead no contest than pursue an acquittal at trial.

The plea is recognized in United States

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