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 Connecticut, a no-contest plea, also known as nolo contendere, is a legal option for a defendant in a criminal case. By entering a no-contest plea, the defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges that the prosecution has enough evidence that could lead to a conviction. This type of plea results in a conviction without the establishment of guilt and cannot be used as an admission of fault in subsequent civil litigation for monetary damages. However, it is important to note that a no-contest plea is treated similarly to a guilty plea in terms of sentencing and punishment. The decision to enter a no-contest plea is a serious one with potential long-term implications, and it is highly recommended that a defendant consult with an attorney to fully understand the consequences and to ensure that their rights are protected throughout the legal process.