LAW OFFICES OF PETER J. CYR

Prior to the entry of the guilty plea, our attorneys:

(1) make certain that our client understands the rights he or she will waive by entering the plea and that our client’s decision to waive those rights is knowing, voluntary, and intelligent;

(2) make certain that our client fully and completely understands the conditions and limits of the plea agreement and the maximum punishment, sanctions and other consequences our client will be exposed to by entering a plea; and

(3) explain to our client the nature of the plea hearing and prepare our client for the role he or she will play in the hearing, including answering questions of the judge and providing a statement concerning the offense.

When entering a plea, our attorneys make sure that the full content and conditions of any applicable plea agreement are placed on the record by the court.

In some cases, after entry of the plea, our attorneys will address the issue of release pending sentencing, which is known as a “stay of execution.” In other words, if our client is sentenced to a term of imprisonment, we will argue that he or she should report to the jail or prison at a later date rather than going immediately into custody.

Consequences of Conviction

We also advise our clients of the potential consequences of conviction, including:

(1) maximum sentence(s);

(2) mandatory minimum sentence(s);  

(3) suspension or revocation of driver’s license;

(4) immigration consequences for non-citizens;

(5) loss of the right to possess a firearm; and

(6) loss of government benefits.