The phrase "cop plea" refers to a legal tactic in which a defendant admits guilt in exchange for a lighter sentence. Antonyms for this phrase, or ways to describe the opposite action, might include "fighting the charges", "protesting innocence", or "demanding a full trial." When a defendant refuses to cop a plea, they are essentially saying that they would rather take their chances in court than admit guilt for a crime they may not have committed. This can be a risky strategy, as a conviction could result in a harsher sentence than the defendant might have received through plea bargaining. Nonetheless, some defendants feel that it is worth the risk in order to defend their reputation and maintain their innocence.