Understanding Washington’s Alford Plea: Admitting Nothing, Avoiding Trial

When facing criminal charges, most people assume their only options are to plead guilty or fight the case at trial. But Washington law, like many states, recognizes a third path: the Alford plea — a unique legal tool that lets someone resolve a case without ever admitting guilt.

What Is an Alford Plea?

An Alford plea is a type of guilty plea where the defendant does not admit to committing the crime but agrees that the prosecution’s evidence would likely lead to a conviction. Named after the 1970 U.S. Supreme Court case North Carolina v. Alford, this plea allows someone to accept a conviction while still maintaining their innocence.

In the eyes of the court, an Alford plea results in a conviction just like a standard guilty plea. The judge enters judgment, and the defendant is sentenced accordingly.

Why Would Someone Enter an Alford Plea?

There are many reasons a person might choose to resolve a case this way. Often, the prosecution has strong evidence, and the defendant wants to avoid the uncertainty or risk of trial — especially when that risk includes significant prison time. This plea allows the defendant to avoid going to trial while continuing to assert they did not commit the offense.

Some common scenarios include:

  • The defendant faces mandatory prison if convicted but is offered a reduced charge with probation.
  • The case is emotionally complex, and both sides want closure without the trauma of trial.
  • The defendant has a legitimate defense but wants to minimize potential sentencing exposure.

What Are the Risks?

While Alford pleas offer strategic advantages, they also carry serious consequences.

  • It still results in a conviction. Even though the defendant doesn’t admit guilt, the legal outcome is the same as pleading guilty.
  • It may impact immigration status. For non-citizens, any criminal conviction can trigger immigration consequences, and an Alford plea is no exception.
  • There’s limited ability to appeal. Once the plea is entered and accepted, it’s extremely difficult to challenge.
  • It can affect civil liability. Even without an admission, a conviction may still be used against the defendant in a related civil lawsuit.
  • Not all judges accept Alford pleas. Some judges may reject this type of plea if they feel the defendant isn’t accepting responsibility or showing remorse.

Is an Alford Plea Right for You?

The decision to enter an Alford plea should never be made lightly. It requires careful analysis of the prosecution’s evidence, the possible defenses, and the likely outcome at trial. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help weigh the benefits and risks, explore other resolution options, and advocate for the best possible outcome.

Talk to a Washington Criminal Defense Attorney

If you’re facing charges in Clark County or anywhere in Washington, the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer can help you understand your options — including whether an Alford plea might serve your best interests. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter defenses. Every case deserves a strategy built around your facts, your goals, and your future.