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 Hawaii, a no-contest plea, also known as nolo contendere, is a type of plea where the defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges that there is enough evidence for a conviction. This plea results in a conviction similar to a guilty plea, but it cannot be used as an admission of guilt in a subsequent civil lawsuit for money damages. This is particularly relevant in cases where the criminal conduct may also give rise to a civil claim. The no-contest plea allows the defendant to avoid admitting liability in the civil case while resolving the criminal charges. It's important for defendants to understand that a no-contest plea is still a serious decision with significant implications. Therefore, it is highly recommended that a defendant consult with an attorney to fully understand the potential consequences and to ensure that their rights are protected throughout the legal process.