Understanding No-Contest Pleas and Their Consequences
Can a No Contest Plea Come Back to Haunt You? Hi, my name is Carl Birkhead. I’m a Tulsa criminal attorney with Wirth Law Office in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I’ve been practicing family and criminal law for almost eight years now, and I want to help you make law easy by just talking a little bit about a no-contest plea and what that could mean for you.
Short answer: Yes, it absolutely can.
What Does a No-Contest Plea Mean?
Many people assume that pleading no contest is the same as saying not guilty, but that’s not how it works. When you plead no contest to a charge—whether it’s a traffic ticket, misdemeanor, or felony—what you’re really telling the judge is: I’m not admitting I did it, but if this case went to trial and the State presented its evidence and witnesses, and I put up no defense, I believe a jury would find me guilty.
And let’s be honest—if one side tells a story and the other side says nothing, a conviction is a pretty safe bet.
The Aftermath of a No-Contest Plea
So, what happens next?
➡️ You’ll still be sentenced. A no-contest plea doesn’t make the charge disappear. It often leads to the same outcome as a guilty plea—unless you’re offered a deferred sentence.
➡️ Deferred sentence? Still risky. Even with a deferred sentence—where the court hasn’t officially found you guilty yet—you’re walking a tightrope. If you violate the terms of your probation, that “no contest” plea can still turn into a conviction on your record.
Making an Informed Decision
That’s why I always make sure my clients understand: A no-contest plea is not a free pass. It doesn’t clear your name. It still carries consequences—and sometimes long-term ones.
So if you’re considering pleading no contest, or you’ve already done so and have concerns about what comes next, give me a call. Let’s talk about your options and make sure you’re protected.
Contact Carl Birkhead for an Initial Strategy Session
My name is Carl Birkhead. I’m a Tulsa felony attorney with Wirth Law Office, and I want to help you make law easy. For a low-cost initial strategy session, call me at 918-879-1681. Let’s ensure your rights are fully protected and discuss the best path forward for your case.
