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 Tennessee, 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 sufficient evidence for a conviction. This plea results in a conviction without the defendant admitting to the criminal act. Under Tennessee 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 a no-contest plea does have similar immediate effects as a guilty plea, including the potential for sentencing, fines, and other penalties. Because of the potential consequences and complexities associated with a no-contest plea, it is highly advisable for a defendant to consult with an attorney to fully understand the implications and to receive guidance tailored to their specific situation.