If a person charged with a criminal offense (crime) or an infraction or civil violation (a traffic ticket) enters a no-contest plea, the person does not admit their guilt, but admits the truth of the facts alleged by the government. A no-contest plea results in a conviction but may not be used against the person charged (the defendant) in a later civil lawsuit for money damages.

A no-contest plea means the defendant will not contest the charges against the defendant. This plea option is sometimes written as nolo contendere, which is the Latin term for “I do not wish to contend.”

The decision to plead no contest can have significant long-term consequences and a defendant should consult with a criminal defense lawyer before making such a decision.

In Arkansas, a no-contest plea, also known as nolo contendere, is a type of plea where the defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges that the prosecution has sufficient evidence to obtain a conviction. This plea results in a conviction without the defendant admitting to the crime. Under Arkansas law, a no-contest plea cannot be used as an admission of liability or guilt in subsequent civil litigation that may arise from the same facts as the criminal case. However, it's important to note that not all courts accept no-contest pleas, and their availability may depend on the specific charges and the court's discretion. Defendants considering a no-contest plea should be aware of the potential consequences, including the fact that it will result in a criminal conviction that may carry the same penalties as a guilty plea. It is crucial for a defendant to consult with an attorney to understand the implications of such a plea and to receive guidance tailored to their individual case.