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Also know, is it better to plead guilty or no contest?
A nolo contendere plea has the same basic effect as a guilty plea: The defendant is convicted and accepts punishment. But, by pleading “no contest,” the accused doesn't actually admit guilt. Traditionally, it would be much better for Dawson to plead nolo contendere than guilty to the criminal charge.
Herein, why would someone enter a nolo contendere plea?
In a criminal proceeding, a defendant may enter a plea of nolo contendere, in which the defendant does not accept or deny responsibility for the charges but agrees to accept punishment. The plea differs from a guilty plea because a "no contest" plea cannot be used against the defendant in another cause of action.
This type of plea, also known as nolo contendere, literally means "I do not wish to contend.” A no contest plea is not an admission of guilt, but is treated as a criminal conviction by the court which hands down sentencing.