plead

To present (an argument or a plea), especially in a legal case.

The defendant has decided to plead not guilty.

O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbour!

To beg, beseech, or implore, especially emotionally.

He pleaded with me not to leave the house.

He was pleading for mercy.

To offer by way of excuse.

Not wishing to attend the banquet, I pleaded illness.

It is no defence to plead that you were only obeying orders.

To discuss by arguments.