Have you been accused of homicide in Albuquerque, New Mexico? Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys can help when you call (505) 248 1400. We offer a complimentary consultation with an Albuquerque homicide lawyer who is ready to take the time to understand your situation and begin building a strong, strategic defense on your behalf.
A homicide charge can turn your life upside down, with everything from your reputation to your freedom at risk. The sooner you involve an experienced attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights and shaping the outcome of your case. Don’t wait—get the help you need today.
Why Choose Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys To Help Me if I’ve Been Accused of Homicide in Albuquerque?
If you’re facing serious criminal charges in Albuquerque, NM, you deserve a legal team that’s prepared to stand by your side and fight for your future. At Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys, we bring local insight, courtroom experience, and a client-first approach to every case.
Here’s why our clients choose us:
- We have the resources and determination to take any case to trial, regardless of the severity of the charges.
- As attorneys born and raised in New Mexico, we care deeply about our community and the people we represent.
- We prioritize strong communication, keeping you informed and involved at every stage of your case.
- We understand that no two cases are alike, so we develop a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation and goals.
- Our team has earned not guilty verdicts in jury trials for clients facing violent felony charges, including homicide.
- We’ve also secured positive outcomes in cases ranging from DWIs to the most complex felony accusations.
If you need help, call today to schedule a free consultation with an Albuquerque criminal defense attorney.
Overview of Homicide in New Mexico
In New Mexico, homicide is not a single charge but a legal category that includes multiple criminal offenses involving the unlawful killing of another person. Charges include:
- First-degree murder: Includes killings that are premeditated, committed during the commission of certain felonies (like robbery or sexual assault), or involve an act that shows a depraved mind. This is a capital felony.
- Second-degree murder: applies when a person knowingly causes the death of another without premeditation or specific aggravating factors. It is a second-degree felony.
- Voluntary manslaughter: involves an intentional killing committed in the heat of passion, such as in a sudden quarrel. Voluntary manslaughter is a third-degree felony.
- Involuntary manslaughter: Refers to unintentional killings that result from criminal negligence or recklessness. It is a fourth-degree felony.
Each charge has unique elements and requires a different legal strategy. An experienced homicide defense lawyer will analyze the details of your case to determine the most effective path forward.
What Are the Penalties for Homicide in Albuquerque, New Mexico?
The consequences of a homicide conviction are some of the most severe under New Mexico law. You could be facing prison time and fines as follows:
- Capital felony: life imprisonment or life imprisonment without possibility of release or parole, depending on whether aggravating circumstances exist.
- Second-degree felony: Up to 18 years imprisonment; fines of up to $12,500.
- Third-degree felony: Up to 6 years imprisonment; fines of up to $5,000.
- Fourth-degree felony: Up to 18 months imprisonment; fines of up to $5,000.
Aggravating factors—such as use of a firearm, killing a peace officer, or committing the offense in the presence of a child—can increase the sentence.
What Collateral Consequences Can I Face From a Homicide Charge?
The direct legal penalties are only part of what you may face. A homicide conviction can follow you for the rest of your life in ways that go beyond a prison sentence. Collateral consequences you may face include:
- Employment barriers: Many employers are reluctant to hire individuals with a violent felony conviction on their record.
- Housing discrimination: You may be denied public or private housing.
- Loss of civil rights: Felony convictions can strip your right to vote (while incarcerated) and permanently revoke your right to own or possess firearms.
- Immigration issues: Non-citizens can face detention, deportation, and inadmissibility to the U.S.
- Professional consequences: If you hold a license (e.g., medical, legal, or teaching), a conviction could result in suspension or revocation.
Even an arrest or accusation—without a conviction—can damage your relationships and standing in the community. That’s why mounting an aggressive defense early is so critical.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of Homicide?
There is no one-size-fits-all defense in a homicide case. Your lawyer will examine the facts, review the evidence, and determine the best strategy. Common defenses may include:
- Self-defense or defense of others: You may have acted to protect yourself or someone else from serious harm or death.
- Lack of intent: The incident may have been an accident, or your actions may not meet the legal threshold for murder.
- Alibi: If you were somewhere else when the alleged crime occurred, you may be able to prove you couldn’t have committed the offense.
- Mistaken identity: You may have been wrongly identified, especially if the case relies heavily on eyewitness testimony or surveillance footage.
- Police misconduct: If your rights were violated—through an illegal search, a coerced statement, or other errors—key evidence could be thrown out.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. If they can’t, your charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Each of these defenses can be powerful—but only when supported by thorough investigation, strong legal argument, and a dedicated defense team.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of Homicide
When you’re facing homicide charges, you need more than just general legal advice—you need fierce, focused representation. A defense attorney can:
- Protect your rights: Your lawyer will step in early to ensure you don’t make statements or decisions that could hurt your case.
- Investigate independently: They’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to uncover facts that support your defense.
- Challenge unlawful procedures: If police violated your rights or collected evidence improperly, your attorney can file motions to have it suppressed.
- Negotiate with prosecutors: In some cases, your lawyer may be able to push for reduced charges, a favorable plea deal, or even dismissal.
- Advocate at trial: If your case goes to court, your attorney will present a clear, compelling defense to the judge or jury.
Without strong legal representation, you may unknowingly waive rights or miss opportunities that could drastically alter the outcome of your case.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Homicide Defense Lawyer
At Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys, we understand exactly how much is at stake when you’re facing a homicide charge in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Whether you’re under investigation or have already been arrested, what you do next matters—and you don’t have to face it alone.
Our team is ready to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and begin building a strong defense designed around your unique circumstances. We know how to navigate high-stakes cases and aren’t afraid to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to protect your future.
Call today to speak with an Albuquerque homicide lawyer who will treat your case with the seriousness it deserves—and fight to defend your rights, freedom, and future.