Felony Crimes

Felony Lawyer in Albuquerque 

Prosecutors and the court treat felony charges with the utmost seriousness. Because they can be devastating to alleged victims, their families, and the community, they carry significant implications for those accused. These crimes are the gravest of offenses under New Mexico law, often involving substantial harm to individuals, large-scale property damage, or threats to public safety. 

Being convicted of a felony can result in long-term imprisonment, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record, jeopardizing one’s future, including employment, housing, and civil rights. The gravity of these consequences warrants thorough investigations by law enforcement and diligent prosecution, making it crucial for the accused to mount a solid legal defense.

If you or someone you love is under investigation for a felony crime, it is never too early to retain the services of a trusted criminal defense lawyer. Law enforcement officers do not have to be truthful with you, and it is easy to be intimidated by their tactics. To protect your rights and avoid making unintentional mistakes that could be used against you, it is essential to have a lawyer when being questioned or investigated.

At Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law, you can turn to a proven felony defense attorney with a 40-year history of fighting for individuals in even the most complex and challenging cases. Attorney Rudy Chavez is known for his uncompromising commitment to client service and professional excellence. He can be the determining factor in how your case is conducted and its results. 

Connect with Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law at (505) 390-7650 or via our online contact form for a free case assessment with our Albuquerque felony attorney. 

Common Felonies in New Mexico

Felony charges in our state include but are not limited to:

  • Murder: The intentional and unlawful killing of another person. This can be categorized into first-degree (premeditated) and second-degree (unplanned but deliberate).
  • Manslaughter: The unlawful killing of another person without premeditation, which can be categorized as voluntary (intentional killing in the heat of passion) or involuntary (unintentional killing resulting from reckless or negligent actions).
  • Aggravated assault: This involves causing serious bodily harm to another person, often with a weapon.
  • Sexual assault: Non-consensual sexual acts forced upon another person, including rape and sexual molestation.
  • Kidnapping: Unlawfully seizing and confining a person, typically to demand a ransom or for other illegal purposes.
  • Drug trafficking: The manufacturing, distribution, or sale of illegal drugs or controlled substances.
  • Burglary: Breaking and entering into a structure with the intent to commit a felony or theft.
  • Arson: The willful and malicious burning of property, whether a building, vehicle or other structure.
  • Fraud: Deceptive practices aimed at unlawfully obtaining money, property, or services, including identity theft and embezzlement.
  • Robbery: The act of forcefully taking money, property, or other assets from another person, typically involving the threat or use of violence.

How Do Prosecutors Determine Charges?

Prosecutors assess several factors to determine the appropriate charge for a felony case. These include the severity of the crime, the evidence available, the defendant’s intent, the use of weapons, the extent of harm caused to victims, and the defendant’s prior criminal history. 

Aggravating factors, such as the involvement of minors or additional crimes committed during the offense, can lead to more severe charges. Conversely, mitigating factors might result in reduced charges or beneficial plea bargains.

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How Does New Mexico Categorize Felonies? 

The state classifies felonies into six main categories:

Capital felonies are the most severe category and are punishable by life imprisonment or the death penalty. An example of this is first-degree murder, which involves premeditation and intentional killing with additional factors like murder for hire, multiple murders, or murder of a law enforcement officer. 

First-degree felonies are serious crimes punishable by a maximum of up to eighteen years in prison. Kidnapping resulting in great bodily injury, armed robbery with a deadly weapon, and aggravated sexual assault can be charged as first-degree felonies. 

Second-degree felonies are less severe but still carry significant penalties, with a maximum sentence of up to nine years in prison. Examples include aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, drug trafficking offenses, robbery, and burglary of a residence.

Third-degree felonies, which can result in up to three years in prison, are considered less severe than first- and second-degree felonies. They can include possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, aggravated DWI, and fraud involving funds or assets over a certain threshold. 

Fourth-degree felonies are less severe than the higher categories and carry a maximum penalty of up to eighteen months in prison. They include theft of property valued between a specific range, aggravated stalking, forgery, and firearm possession by a felon. 

Some felonies in New Mexico are labeled as unclassified, meaning they do not fall into the standard categories but still carry felony-level penalties. They are designated separately due to their unique nature. 

Examples of unclassified felonies include driving while intoxicated that causes serious physical harm to another, death of a child due to child abuse, and killing someone while in the commission of another felony. 

Retaining a Trusted Felony Defense Lawyer

Facing felony charges without proper legal representation is never recommended. You need the knowledge, skill, and resources of an attorney experienced in the complexities of the legal system and its proceedings. 

A seasoned criminal defense lawyer can provide critical support and guidance. Their services include analysis of the other side’s facts, circumstances, and arguments while seeking evidence favorable to you. A savvy lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s case, negotiate appropriate plea deals, and protect your rights at every stage.

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What Should You Look for in Hiring a Felony Defense Lawyer?

Look for attorneys with a proven track record of handling felony cases similar to yours. Research their reputation within the legal community and check client reviews or testimonials. Ensure they have a clear plan for your defense and are prepared to tailor their strategies to your unique circumstances. Choose a lawyer or firm with sufficient resources to conduct comprehensive investigations and engage expert witnesses if necessary.

Finally, your attorney should be accessible, communicative, and transparent. You should feel confident and at ease in the attorney-client relationship, knowing they are committed to giving you the best possible defense. 

At Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law, Albuquerque felony defense Attorney Rudy Chavez is a top choice for representation. He brings extensive experience, human support, and relentless advocacy to clients facing felony investigations, arrests, and charges. 

Contact us today at (505) 390-7650 to schedule a complimentary consultation for advice and guidance in felony cases.

Why Clients Choose Us

When Your Future is On the Line, We're Here to Help
  • Client-Centered Approach
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    We fight for your rights with empathy and understanding, treating each case with the care it deserves.
  • Decades of Experience
    With over 40 years of legal experience, Attorney Chavez brings unparalleled knowledge to your defense.
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    No one should be without legal help due to financial constraints. He offers flexible payment options to make sure you receive the defense you deserve.
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    Get started on your case with a free consultation today. We are here to provide the initial guidance you need without any cost to you.
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