Why do critics say plea bargaining can pressure innocent defendants to plead guilty?

Critics argue that plea bargaining can pressure innocent defendants to plead guilty primarily because the justice system can be overwhelming and confusing, leaving defendants unsure of how to proceed.1

The pressure is often exacerbated by the inherent risks of going to trial. Because defendants who exercise their constitutional right to a trial often face significantly harsher sentences if convicted than those who accept a plea deal, many individuals—including those who feel they are factually innocent—may choose to plead guilty to secure a more lenient, predictable outcome or to obtain immediate release from pretrial detention.213

Historically, this concern has been illustrated by cases like the Salem witch trials, where accused individuals were induced to confess to avoid execution. Critics maintain that the practice can prioritize the efficient disposal of cases over the pursuit of truth, potentially leading innocent people to accept responsibility for crimes they did not commit to avoid the stigma, costs, or severe risks associated with a public trial.421