No contest
No contest: A plea in which the defendant does not admit guilt but does not contest the charge. It is also called nolo contendere. In federal court, a defendant may plead no contest only with the court's consent (Fed. R. Crim. P. 11(a)(1), (a)(3)). Under Federal Rule of Evidence 410, a no-contest plea generally cannot be used against the defendant in a later case.
What no contest means
In practice, you will see no contest in pleadings, motions, orders and court rules. The definition above explains the general meaning. Even so, the meaning can shift with context. Therefore, always read it alongside the rule or document where it appears.
Where no contest comes up
The term is used across many kinds of cases. For example, you may see it in pleadings, motions and court orders. To see it in context, browse the motions and procedures library or the Learn the Law topics.
Read the source: Guilty.
How to research the term
To research no contest, begin with the rule, statute or contract where the word is used. Each one can give it a slightly different meaning. Then compare that text with how courts in your area have applied it. Also check the local rules of your court, since they can add requirements. If your case is in state court, the state rules control. So start with our state procedures guide to find them. In the end, always confirm that the source you rely on is current.
You can read the current federal court rules online for free.
Related legal terms
- Natural person: a human being, as distinguished from an artificial person such as a corporation.
- Negligence: failure to use the care that a reasonably careful person would use in the same situation. A negligence claim generally requires a duty, a breach of that duty, causation and damages.
- Negotiable instrument: a signed written promise or order to pay a fixed amount of money that meets the requirements of UCC Article 3, such as a note or check.
- Ninth Amendment: the article of the Bill of Rights providing that "The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people." It confirms that people hold rights beyond those listed.
Why precise terms matter
Legal words often look like everyday words, but they can carry a precise meaning. Because of that, a small misreading can change how you understand a deadline, a duty or a right. Our glossary keeps each definition short and links it to the procedures where it matters.
Sources
Sources last reviewed: 2026-10-24
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.