What is the legal consequence of a plea of "Nolo Contendere"?

A plea of "Nolo Contendere," or "no contest," has the legal effect of being treated similarly to a guilty plea. When a defendant enters this plea, they do not directly admit guilt but accept the consequences of a conviction without contesting the charges. This can be particularly beneficial in cases where admitting guilt in a civil matter could lead to additional legal repercussions beyond the criminal case, such as liability in civil lawsuits.

This type of plea allows the court to impose a sentence as if the defendant had pleaded guilty, making it a strategic choice in certain legal situations. By choosing this plea, defendants avoid the admission of guilt that could be used against them in future civil proceedings, while still facing the penalties associated with a conviction.

Other options do not accurately capture the nature of a "Nolo Contendere" plea. A plea resulting in an immediate acquittal is not applicable since the defendant is still considered convicted. A request for retrial does not align with the concept of this plea, as it does not involve contesting the charges. Lastly, the idea that it can only be made in juvenile cases is incorrect; adults can also enter a "Nolo Contendere" plea in various judicial settings.