The opportunity to negotiate a plea is present all the way up to the close of evidence at trial. Our negotiating strength is dependent on the facts of the case, the amount of evidence, the crime charged, your willingness to go to trial, the risk of conviction, and other factors. The Prosecuting Attorney has the discretion to reduce charges, refrain from additional charges, or even to dismiss charges in return for a guilty plea. However a prosecutor must negotiate within the prosecutorial standards set forth in the Sentencing Reform Act and within the guidelines adopted by the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office. Any negotiated plea agreement must also be approved by the judge accepting the plea.