A legal plea is a formal statement made by a defendant in response to criminal charges. It indicates whether the defendant admits to the charges, denies them, or chooses to remain silent. Common types of pleas include "guilty," "not guilty," and "no contest." Each plea has different legal implications and consequences. In a courtroom, the plea is typically entered during an arraignment, where the defendant is informed of the charges against them. The choice of plea can significantly affect the legal process, including potential sentencing and the possibility of a trial. Understanding the implications of each plea is crucial for defendants.