Cop a plea

usgb
verb phrase

To admit to a crime in court to get a less severe punishment.

To avoid a long sentence, he chose to cop a plea and acknowledge his crime.
Visual representation of "cop a plea" - To admit to a crime in court to get a less severe punishment

Often appears as...

  • decide to cop a plea
  • offer to cop a plea

Usage tips

Colloquial

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "cop a plea"
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Legal Strategy

It's often a strategic move in legal situations to get a better outcome.

Illustration for Legal Strategy
His lawyer suggested he should cop a plea to avoid the risk of a harsher sentence.
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Negotiated Agreement

'Cop a plea' implies an agreement with the prosecution, not just admitting guilt.

Illustration for Negotiated Agreement
He was able to cop a plea and received probation instead of jail time.
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Phrase Connotation

The phrase can carry a negative connotation, suggesting a way to avoid full punishment.

Illustration for Phrase Connotation
Some believe celebrities often cop a plea to dodge serious consequences.
Visual representation of the word "Cop a plea"

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