Legal Definitions - nolo

The term nolo is almost exclusively encountered in the legal phrase nolo contendere, which is a specific type of plea a defendant can enter in a criminal case. In Latin, "nolo" translates to "I do not wish" or "I choose not." When a defendant enters a nolo contendere plea, they are essentially telling the court, "I do not wish to contend" or "I choose not to dispute the charges." This means the defendant accepts the punishment for the crime without formally admitting guilt. The court can then impose a sentence as if the defendant had pleaded guilty, but the plea itself generally cannot be used as an admission of guilt in subsequent civil lawsuits.

Here are some examples illustrating the application of a nolo contendere plea:

• Example 1: Avoiding Civil Liability in a Traffic Incident

  Imagine a driver involved in a minor car accident who is subsequently charged with careless driving. While they believe they were not at fault, they want to avoid the expense and stress of a trial. More importantly, they are concerned that a guilty plea could be used as an admission of fault if the other driver later files a civil lawsuit for damages. By entering a nolo contendere plea, the driver accepts the penalties for the careless driving charge (such as a fine or points on their license) without formally admitting guilt. This "nolo" choice allows them to resolve the criminal matter while preventing the plea itself from being automatically used as proof of their liability in any future civil case.

• Example 2: Corporate Resolution of Regulatory Violations

  Consider a large manufacturing company facing criminal charges for violating environmental regulations. Admitting guilt in the criminal case could expose the company to a wave of costly civil lawsuits from affected communities or individuals. To mitigate this risk, the company might enter a nolo contendere plea. This allows them to accept the criminal penalties, such as fines and compliance mandates, imposed by the government, thereby resolving the criminal charges. The "nolo" aspect means they are choosing not to contest the charges in the criminal court, but without making a formal admission of guilt that could be used against them as definitive proof of wrongdoing in subsequent civil litigation.

• Example 3: Expediting a Case for a Public Figure

  Suppose a local celebrity is accused of a minor misdemeanor, such as disturbing the peace. Although they maintain their innocence, the ongoing media attention and the prospect of a lengthy, public trial are causing significant damage to their reputation and career. To quickly put the matter behind them and minimize further public scrutiny, the celebrity might opt for a nolo contendere plea. This allows them to accept the court's judgment and any imposed sanctions (like a small fine or community service) without having to formally admit guilt. Their "nolo" decision signifies their choice *not to fight* the charges in court, prioritizing a swift resolution over a prolonged legal battle, even without conceding their guilt.