What is the purpose of a "plea" in a criminal case?

The purpose of a "plea" in a criminal case is to formally answer the charges against the defendant. When a defendant enters a plea, it indicates their response to the charges presented by the prosecution. This can include pleading guilty, not guilty, or no contest. A plea is an essential part of the criminal justice process as it sets the stage for how the case will proceed.

Entering a plea helps the court determine the next steps, such as whether the case will go to trial or if there might be a possibility of negotiating a plea deal, which can result in reduced charges or sentencing for the defendant. This process ensures that the defendant's rights are respected and that they have an opportunity to respond to the accusations in a structured manner.

The other options do not correctly describe the role of a plea. Requesting a new trial pertains to post-conviction procedures and appealing a conviction is about contesting the outcome of a trial after it has concluded. Selecting a jury is part of trial preparation but is not related to the plea phase of a criminal case.