Misdemeanor Lawyer in Albuquerque for Your Defense
Misdemeanors are criminal offenses generally considered less severe than felonies. They can range from minor shoplifting to certain traffic violations. While less severe than felonies, they can still significantly affect your reputation, job or career, finances, and more.
When arrested for a New Mexico misdemeanor, it is in your best interests to seek legal advice to understand your situation, your options, and how best to deal with the legal process.
At Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law, Attorney Rudy Chavez has represented thousands of individuals in misdemeanor cases in his 40-year career. He thoroughly understands the criminal justice system and is driven by a passion for serving individuals facing legal problems. Our firm advises, guides, and fights for optimum outcomes. We build relationships based on trust, support, and care at a time when you need it the most.
Schedule a free consultation with our Albuquerque misdemeanor attorney at Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law by calling (505) 390-7650. You can also submit our online contact form to get started.
Understanding Misdemeanor Charges in New Mexico
Misdemeanors are classified as petty or full misdemeanors, each carrying different penalties.
Common Petty Misdemeanors in New Mexico
Examples of petty misdemeanors include but are not limited to:
- Trespassing: Unlawfully entering another’s property without permission.
- Simple assault: Causing fear of imminent harm in another person.
- Public intoxication: Being visibly drunk or under the influence of drugs in public.
- Disorderly conduct: Minor disruptions of the peace.
- Petty larceny: Theft of a small amount.
- Firing a gun into a building or car: This involves the reckless discharge of a firearm.
Penalties: Up to six months in jail, fines up to $500, or both.
Standard Misdemeanors and Their Consequences
- Possession of marijuana: Possession of more than two ounces up to eight ounces for personal use.
- DUI/DWI: First offense of driving while intoxicated by alcohol and/or drugs.
- Traffic violations: These range from reckless driving to driving with a suspended license and leaving the scene of an accident.
- Harassment: Stalking, unwanted contact, or threatening behavior.
- Resisting arrest: Interfering with an officer during an arrest.
- Domestic violence: Assault and other abusive behavior against a family or household member.
- Revenge porn: Unauthorized distribution of intimate images without consent.
Penalties: Up to one year in jail, fines up to $1,000, or both.
What Are the Impacts of Misdemeanor Convictions?
Misdemeanor convictions can have legal, social, and financial consequences. A conviction results in a permanent criminal record accessible to law enforcement, other agencies, and anyone conducting a routine background check.
Depending on the severity of the offense, you can face jail time of up to a year and may be ordered to pay substantial fines. Jail time and difficulty finding employment can lead to significant income loss. Certain misdemeanor convictions like DUIs can lead to higher insurance premiums.
Other penalties include probation with restrictive conditions, community service hours, and mandatory educational or substance abuse programs.
The social impacts can range from employment challenges to housing difficulties and reputational damage. Future employers may be hesitant to hire you, landlords may choose to reject your rental application, and your relationships with friends, co-workers, and others may suffer.
Legal Representation Is a Must
At Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law, we understand your hardships when charged with a misdemeanor. Our firm can take immediate legal action to support you at this critical time. Once you retain our attorney, we can conduct a case analysis to review all aspects of your case; this helps us identify opportunities for dismissal or a reduction of charges.
Attorney Chavez can develop a tailored defense strategy that leverages your case’s strengths while addressing weaknesses in the prosecutor’s arguments. Where appropriate, he can negotiate for reduced charges or a plea agreement that minimizes the impact on your future. Should your case go to trial, he can provide skilled representation in court.
Mr. Chavez can also explore expungement as post-conviction relief to further mitigate the long-term impacts of a criminal record.
Find out more about how our Albuquerque misdemeanor lawyer can help by contacting us at (505) 390-7650.
Why Clients Choose Us
When Your Future is On the Line, We're Here to Help
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Client-Centered ApproachYour voice matters in your defense, and we ensure it is heard through a collaborative planning process. By involving you in every decision, we help achieve the best possible outcome together.
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Compassionate DefenseWe fight for your rights with empathy and understanding, treating each case with the care it deserves.
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Decades of ExperienceWith over 40 years of legal experience, Attorney Chavez brings unparalleled knowledge to your defense.
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Affordable RepresentationNo 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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Free Consultations AvailableGet 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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Hablamos EspañolWe are fluent in Spanish, ensuring clear and effective communication for all our clients.