Why are some cases plea bargained?

There are not enough prosecutors, judges, courtrooms, or trial days on the calendar to put all the thousands of cases every year in Montcalm County before a jury. For those defendants taken to trial, or for those who plead guilty before a trial, there are not enough jail cells in the state to hold them. These practical demands, plus the defendant's speedy trial rights, the seriousness of the cases, the strengths or weaknesses of cases, the victim's wishes, public safety, punishment, rehabilitation, and deterrence are all interests that are considered by the Prosecutor when deciding how to proceed. A plea agreement is always designed to balance these competing interests. Most cases are resolved in a relatively short time by the defendant's please - many times a plea to the charged offense.

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1. I feel that a crime has been committed. How do I press charges? Can I report directly to the Prosecutor's Office?
2. How do I press counter-charges against someone?
3. I am a victim. Can I drop the charge(s)?
4. Can you tell me if a charge has been issued of if an arrest warrant exists?
5. How do I get my property back?
6. Where do I get court forms?
7. How do I get a copy of a police report?
8. How do I get a copy of a person's criminal record?
9. How can I get help if a defendant is not paying court-ordered restitution?
10. I was a victim of a violent crime. How can the Prosecuting Attorney help me with my medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc?
11. Can the Prosecuting Attorney help me if I have been cheated by a contractor, shopkeeper or other person who provides labor or services?
12. I have been subpoenaed to appear as a witness in a criminal case. Can I get witness fees? What if I can't attend on the date stated on the subpoena?
13. Can I talk to Andrea Krause? I think she's the person who is working on my case since her name appears on my court documents.
14. How do I get a court-appointed attorney?
15. I am a defendant and do not like the attorney who is representing me. Can I talk to a Prosecuting Attorney about my case?
16. Why are some cases plea bargained?
17. I want a divorce and need help getting child support. Can the Prosecutor's office help me?
18. What if I have a question which is not answered in your FAQs?