Legally speaking, a no contest plea has the same effect as a guilty plea on a conviction when it comes to sentencing. Pleading no contest ("nolo contendere") means accepting the conviction but avoiding a factual admission of guilt.A plea of "no contest" implies only that the defendant has declined to present a defense, and would normally result in a conviction in the case. A plea in which the defendant does not contest the charge. Entering a guilty plea or a plea of no contest is done on the record. A big advantage of a no-contest plea compared to a guilty plea is that a no-contest plea could not be offered into evidence in a civil case. Contest plea does not admit guilt but does not dispute the charges against you. Entering a mute plea means the court will enter a plea of not guilty. A free online service to help users prepare court documents to file for certain case types. Learn more or start a filing.