Plea Best Not Taken: Why Criminal Defendants Should Avoid the Alford Plea, A

After examining the North Carolina v. Alford decision in detail, this Article will first look at the broad arguments in favor of this type of plea. This Article will then focus on the body of case law dealing with the Alford plea and its effect on sentencing, probation and parole. While examining these cases this Article will also focus on the variety of arguments offered by criminal defendants who contend that it is impermissible to require an Alford-type defendant to express remorse for the offense or admit to the offense in any other context. This Article will conclude by reevaluating the arguments advanced in favor of the Alford plea in light of the cases examined.