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 Pennsylvania, a no-contest plea, also known as nolo contendere, is a legal option for a defendant in a criminal case. By pleading no contest, the defendant does not admit guilt but acknowledges that the prosecution has enough evidence to prove the charges. This plea results in a conviction, similar to a guilty plea, and the court will proceed to sentencing. However, one of the key distinctions of a no-contest plea is that it cannot be used as an admission of guilt in a subsequent civil lawsuit seeking monetary damages. This can be particularly important in cases where the criminal conduct may also give rise to a civil claim. It is crucial for defendants to understand the implications of a no-contest plea, as it can have serious and lasting consequences. Therefore, it is highly recommended that individuals facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania consult with an attorney to fully understand their legal options and the potential outcomes before entering such a plea.