How does plea bargaining work in Alabama?

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1. Constitutional Framework   The Sixth Amendment guarantees effective counsel during plea bargaining (Lafler v. Cooper; Missouri v. Frye). A plea must be knowing, voluntary, and intelligent (Boykin v. Alabama, 395 U.S. 238 (1969) — originating in Alabama).    2. Types of Pleas   Alabama recognizes guilty pleas and limited nolo contendere pleas. Alford-type pleas are not formally embraced in most Alabama practice, though some courts permit them; the defendant generally must admit factual guilt.    3. Charge vs Sentence Bargaining   Both occur. Charge bargaining frequently addresses Habitual Felony Offender Act enhancements under Ala. Code § 13A-5-9; sentence bargaining often involves split sentences and probation.    4. Judicial Role   Alabama judges generally do not participate in plea negotiations; the court's role is to accept or reject the agreement and ensure voluntariness.    5. Plea Colloquy   Rule 14.4 requires the court to address the defendant personally and ensure understanding of the nature of the charge, maximum and minimum sentence, the rights waived (jury trial, confrontation, self-incrimination, presumption of innocence), and immigration consequences (Padilla v. Kentucky). The standard 'Ireland form' (after Ireland v. State) is used to document the colloquy.    6. Withdrawal of Plea   Rule 14.4(e): pre-sentence withdrawal is in the discretion of the court. Post-sentence: Rule 14.4(e) allows a motion to withdraw within 30 days after sentence, and beyond that relief lies via Rule 32 post-conviction proceedings.    7. Conditional Pleas   Alabama does not formally provide for conditional pleas, but appellate review of suppression rulings may survive a guilty plea where the issue was preserved before plea.    8. Sentence Recommendation vs Bargain   If the court rejects the plea agreement (Rule 14.3(c)), the defendant must be afforded the opportunity to withdraw the plea.    9. Plea Statistics   About 95% of Alabama felony convictions are by plea.  This is legal information, not legal advice.