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In ordinary words.
The risk of trial can make a deal feel less like a choice.
In legal terms.
Plea deals are lawful with constitutional safeguards; coercion and ineffective counsel can invalidate pleas.
Where it stops being legal.
This practice is not categorically legal. Applicable federal, state and local laws, disclosures, procedural protections and the specific facts can make particular conduct unlawful.
General U.S.-focused information. Cases and statutes may have jurisdiction-specific exceptions. This citation may be a general primer; verify the governing primary authority. Not legal advice.