Final answer:
A distinction is made between early and late guilty pleas, with early pleas often resulting in more lenient sentences due to their benefits to the justice system. Defendants may choose to plead guilty early due to overwhelming evidence against them or in exchange for a plea bargain. If not resolved via a plea, a jury trial and subsequent sentencing by a judge will occur.
Step-by-step explanation:
In criminal proceedings, a distinction between an early guilty plea and a late one is significant because it can influence the severity of the sentence imposed by the court. An early guilty plea can lead to a more lenient sentence, as it often demonstrates the defendant's remorse, willingness to accept responsibility, and helps to save court resources by avoiding a protracted trial. In contrast, a late guilty plea, which might come after the commencement of a trial, could result in a less lenient sentence as it offers fewer benefits to the judicial system.
One of the reasons defendants may opt for a plea bargain, and thus an early guilty plea, relates to the evidence against them appearing overwhelmingly convincing or to mitigate the risks of harsher penalties, including the death penalty. Additionally, defendants might gain some advantage from prosecutors by agreeing to testify against others or accept guilt for certain charges that are easier to prove in exchange for the dismissal of other more serious charges.
When a plea bargain is not reached and the case goes to trial, the jury is responsible for determining guilt based on the evidence, followed by the judge or sometimes the same jury deciding on the sentencing. Sentencing guidelines, which are more formulaic in the federal system, assist judges in determining appropriate punishment. However, even in cases where the defendant pleaded early, some factors related to the crime itself and the defendant's criminal history could influence the final sentence.