This page explains how a defendant or a respondent in a lawsuit can file an answer to protect their rights. If you enter into a plea in abeyance agreement, it means you are waiving nearly all of the rights that you have as a criminal defendant.WHO THIS GUIDE IS INTENDED TO ASSIST: This guide is designed to assist you if. Pleadings are certain formal documents filed with the court that state the parties' basic positions. Common pre-trial pleadings include:. A plea in abeyance may appear in your criminal record depending on multiple factors. The general rule is that the charges will appear in the criminal history. When you plead guilty or no contest, you give up your right to trial, to confront the witnesses, and to remain silent. You cannot appeal a guilty plea. A plea bargain or "plea offer," is the negotiation between the prosecution and the defendant in a criminal case.