A plea is an accused person's formal response to criminal charges in court, typically guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Pleading guilty means accepting responsibility and proceeding to sentencing. Pleading not guilty leads to trial where the Crown must prove charges beyond reasonable doubt. The plea process occurs early in proceedings, though pleas can sometimes be changed. Understanding pleas helps citizens follow criminal proceedings and court reporting. Municipal bylaw offences processed through provincial offences courts involve similar plea processes, with accused persons pleading guilty, not guilty, or providing explanations before adjudication of alleged violations.