Criminal lawyers play a critical role in negotiating plea bargains to reduce charges or penalties for their clients. They assess the strength of the prosecution’s case and determine whether accepting a plea deal is in the client's best interest. Criminal lawyers also ensure their clients fully understand the implications of the plea agreement, including its impact on their record and future opportunities. By effectively negotiating with prosecutors, criminal lawyers often secure more favorable outcomes than would likely be achieved through a trial, balancing the risks and benefits of each option in close consultation with their clients.