What is the purpose of a 'plea bargain'?

A plea bargain serves primarily as a negotiation tool in the criminal justice system where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge or to one of several charges in exchange for a more lenient sentence than they might receive if they were to go to trial. This process helps to alleviate the courts' caseload by resolving cases efficiently and expeditiously without the need for a full trial, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.

Choosing a plea bargain often involves the defendant admitting to certain facts that are sufficient for a conviction, thereby benefiting from potentially reduced penalties. This option offers a way for defendants to mitigate the consequences of their actions while still accepting responsibility in some manner.

Other options presented do not align with the primary functions of a plea bargain. For instance, while avoiding trial might be a consequence of a plea bargain, that is not the primary purpose; the focus is more on ensuring a lighter sentence in exchange for the plea. Increasing severity of charges runs contrary to the concept of plea bargaining, as it is designed to provide relief rather than increase penalties. Lastly, the notion of public exoneration is not relevant in the context of a plea bargain, as it typically involves a guilty plea rather than proving one's innocence.