Plead Meaning
Plead Definition & Usage
To present a case or argument before a court of law, often with emotional appeal or strong reasoning.
Examples
- "The defendant pleaded guilty to all charges."
- "Her lawyer pleaded for leniency, citing her difficult upbringing."
- "The accused pleaded not guilty, demanding a trial by jury."
- "In his final plea, the defense attorney begged for the judge's mercy."
- "The woman pleaded for her life in front of the jury."
To make an emotional or earnest appeal, often in a desperate or humble manner.
Examples
- "She pleaded for someone to help her find her lost dog."
- "I plead with you to reconsider your decision."
- "He pleaded for forgiveness after the argument."
- "The refugees pleaded for food and shelter after their long journey."
- "They pleaded for a chance to explain their side of the story."
To formally state or answer a charge in legal terms, particularly in court proceedings.
Examples
- "The defendant pleaded not guilty to all charges."
- "The lawyer pleaded that the evidence was inadmissible."
- "The prosecutor pleaded for the maximum sentence based on the severity of the crime."
- "In court, she pleaded for the charges to be dropped due to lack of evidence."
- "The accused pleaded for the case to be dismissed, citing legal technicalities."
Cultural Context
The word 'plead' originates from the Latin 'placitare', meaning to please or to beg. Over time, it developed into its modern meanings in legal and emotional contexts. In legal proceedings, pleading is a formal response to charges or accusations. Outside of law, it is often used to express intense emotion, such as desperation or earnestness.
The Last Plea
Story
The Last Plea
In a courtroom buzzing with tension, Michael, a lawyer of modest means but remarkable passion, stood before the judge. The case was dire — his client, Liam, a young man caught in a web of accusations, had been charged with theft. The evidence was circumstantial, but enough to make most believe Liam was guilty. Michael had one shot left: the closing statement. He cleared his throat and began, his voice unwavering but full of conviction. 'Your Honor, I plead with you to consider not just the evidence, but the life of the defendant. This young man, he’s made mistakes, but he deserves a chance at redemption. I ask for leniency. Please, allow him to make amends for his past actions.' Liam watched as Michael spoke, his heart racing with hope. He had been pleading for help since his arrest, but this was the first time someone had truly fought for him. Michael’s words were not just for the judge, but a plea for Liam’s life to not be ruined by a single poor decision. After the long pause, the judge nodded thoughtfully and issued his verdict: a lesser sentence with the possibility of rehabilitation. As the court adjourned, Liam whispered to Michael, 'Thank you... I can never repay you for this.' Michael smiled, knowing that his own plea, made with the sincerity and urgency of a desperate man, had changed a life for the better. He had pled not just in the legal sense, but from the heart, for a future that still had hope. Later that evening, Michael sat at his desk, reflecting on his journey. He had pleaded in court, but sometimes the most important pleas happen outside the walls of the courtroom — with words that can change everything, not just for a client, but for anyone who is willing to listen to the call of hope in a desperate moment.
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