What type of evidence is generally inadmissible relating to plea bargaining?

In the context of plea bargaining, both offers to plead guilty and statements made during the negotiation process are generally considered inadmissible as evidence in later court proceedings. The rationale behind this rule is to encourage open and honest communication during plea negotiations. Allowing such statements or offers to be introduced as evidence could undermine the plea bargaining process, as it would create a chilling effect where defendants might be less willing to negotiate for fear that their statements could later be used against them.

By making these types of evidence inadmissible, the legal system aims to foster an environment where the parties can discuss potential resolutions to a case without concern that their negotiations will influence the outcome of a trial. Additionally, withdrawn pleas of guilty are also inadmissible for similar reasons; once a plea is withdrawn, it is as if it never existed in terms of the evidentiary implications in the subsequent proceedings. This overarching principle underscores the strong public policy interest in promoting the resolution of cases through negotiation and settlement rather than through trial.