It is possible that you will come across the terms “proffer agreement” or “proffer letter” if you are charged with a federal crime. Both terms refer to a formal arrangement between a defendant and a federal prosecutor under which the defendant divulges details of the alleged offense to the government. In such situations, the prosecutor agrees not to utilize any of the material against the defendant.
Keep reading to learn more about this option and contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 if you require an experienced federal criminal defense attorney who can help with your case.
Does Accepting a Proffer Agreement Make Sense?
Because of the extraordinarily high conviction rate in federal criminal prosecutions, one of the main reasons someone decides to accept a proffer agreement is because of this. As a result, a defendant might desire to enter a guilty plea, cooperate with the prosecution, and receive a reduced punishment.
The proposal letter lays forth the groundwork for such discussion. The information provided might be sufficient in some circumstances to have the charges against you dropped.
Immunity And Offer Agreements Are Not the Same Thing
People frequently believe that a proffer letter entitles them to complete immunity from prosecution. That is untrue. You may still face charges even if the prosecution and you reach a proffer deal. It merely permits that, barring a number of circumstances, the information given in connection with the proffer agreement cannot be used against you.
The offer agreement probably calls for you to take certain actions. You’ll probably need to communicate with the government, refrain from communicating with specific individuals, and carry out their exact instructions. The prosecution may declare the agreement void and fail to uphold their end of the bargain if you do not adhere to it exactly. They can, in essence, use your remarks against you at that point.
Taking a Proffer Agreement Carries Dangers
You could be charged with perjury if you lied during the interview to a government agency. When you accept the offer letter, you essentially give up the chance to win the case outright at trial. Because of this, defendants who have a ton of evidence against them and want to escape the potentially life-long repercussions of a conviction frequently accept proffer agreements. They could receive a lighter punishment by entering a plea of guilty and collaborating.
But accepting a proffer deal is probably not a good idea if the defendant wishes to prove their innocence in court. It is time to call a criminal defense lawyer if you are in this predicament. At Chambers Law Firm, we’ll take the time to learn about your needs and give you a game plan for achieving the best result. No matter what crime you were accused of committing, call us at 714-760-4088 right now to schedule a free legal consultation.
