Jenna Ellis, a former lawyer for Donald Trump, broke down in tears and pleaded guilty in Georgia where she, the former president and others have been charged with trying to overturn the 2020 election.

In a deal with prosecutors Ellis, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting false statements and writings.

She had been facing more serious charges of violating the state's anti-racketeering law.

Ellis avoided jail and was sentenced to five years probation, a $5,000 fine, and 100 hours of community service, and was also ordered to write an apology letter to the people of Georgia.

She was also ordered to testify truthfully in any trials related to the case, which could include giving evidence against Trump. 

It came days after two other former Trump lawyers - Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro - also struck deals and pleaded guilty to lesser charges.

Ellis was indicted two months ago along with Trump, Powell, Chesebro and more than a dozen other defendants, who were accused of a sprawling criminal conspiracy to overturn Joe Biden's victory in Georgia.