No Contest Vs Guilty In Florida
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You admit to the allegation. No contest means that you do not admit to actually committing the allegation, you merely admit that the State can produce sufficient evidence for you to be found guilty. In general, no contest is the better way to go, but it probably wouldn't make much difference in your situation.
A no contest plea means just what it says: The defendant has decided not to contest the state's charges against them. While this is not the same as pleading “guilty,” it essentially has the same effect. The trial court will enter a judgment against the defendant and impose a sentence.
contest plea will result in a permanent criminal record for both types of offenses unless you successfully petition for expungement or an order of nondisclosure (sealing).
A guilty plea is an affirmative admission of guilt. A no contest plea is not. Therefore if there are possible civil liability ramifications, such as responsibility for an auto accident, its better to plea no contest, if possible.
Not Guilty You can later decide to change your plea to guilty or no contest if you wish. If you plead not guilty you will have a pretrial conference to try to settle your case. There is no penalty for pleading not guilty. Your sentence will not be more severe or less severe based merely on how you plead.
contest plea is a legal option for defendants who do not want to admit guilt but do not want to fight the charges.
A defendant may, however, also enter a plea of nolo contendere or “no contest.” Such pleas are permitted under Florida law, provided the trial judge agrees to accept it.
