Can a judge reject a plea bargain? Ask the Lawyer

Can a judge reject a plea bargain? Ask the Lawyer

Q: Watching the Kohlberger case that went forward in Idaho, I was struck by the absolutely heinous nature of what he did, and yet he is not getting the death penalty. The plea deal was explained, the prosecutor sought to justify it, but could it have been rejected? K.L., San Clemente Ron Sokol A: Here in California, and across the land, a judge can reject a plea bargain in a criminal case. There are a number of factors that may result in the ple…