I don't have alot of court experience, and no criminal court experience; but, from what I have seen in civil matters, more gets accomplished outside of the courtroom than does inside of it. I'm not saying that this is the case here; but I also wouldn't be surprised if it is. And I would also bet that, if this is a brokered deal, there are more players than just Cheek and Nifong.
Dukie, I agree completely that more players are involved. As I said previously it probably didn't involve the two candidates directly.