Have you been charged with a violent crime in Albuquerque, New Mexico? Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys can help when you call (505) 248-1400. We offer a free consultation with an Albuquerque criminal defense lawyer who is ready to stand up for your rights.
Violent crime charges can turn your life upside down. A conviction could lead to prison time, heavy fines, and a criminal record that follows you forever. Even an arrest can harm your future. Our firm delivers dedicated, thorough defense strategies designed to protect your freedom and reputation.
Why Choose Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys To Help Me if I’ve Been Accused of a Violent Crime in Albuquerque?
If you’re facing violent crime charges in Albuquerque, NM, Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys offers the experience, dedication, and local insight you need during this challenging time. Here’s what sets our firm apart:
- Our founding attorney, Alexandra Jones, has been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star, a distinction given to only a small percentage of attorneys nationwide.
- Our team brings a strong background in criminal defense and has successfully defended clients against a wide range of charges, from misdemeanors to serious felony offenses.
- We provide passionate and comprehensive representation, taking the time to understand your case, explain your options, and fight for the best possible outcome at every stage.
Getting started early is always the best plan of action when you are facing charges for a violent crime. Call today to schedule a free consultation with an Albuquerque criminal defense attorney.
New Mexico Violent Crimes Defined
Violent crimes in New Mexico involve the use or threat of physical force against another person. These offenses are taken seriously by law enforcement and prosecutors and often carry severe penalties. Under New Mexico law, violent crimes may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on their nature and severity.
Types of Violent Crimes in New Mexico
Common examples of violent crimes in Albuquerque include:
- Assault
- Aggravated assault
- Battery
- Aggravated battery
- Domestic violence
- Robbery
- Sexual assault and rape
- Murder and manslaughter
- Kidnapping
The state’s criminal code distinguishes between basic and aggravated versions of many offenses. For example, simple assault is a misdemeanor, while aggravated assault—especially with a deadly weapon—can be charged as a felony.
Additionally, crimes committed against certain victims, such as police officers or children, may result in enhanced penalties.
What Are the Penalties for Violent Crimes in Albuquerque, New Mexico?
The penalties for violent crimes in Albuquerque depend on how the offense is classified—misdemeanor or felony—as well as the circumstances of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history.
Misdemeanor Penalties
Jail time and fines for misdemeanor violent crimes in New Mexico are typically as follows:
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000
- Petty misdemeanor: Up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $500
Petty misdemeanors might include simple assault or battery without aggravating factors. Standard misdemeanors may apply in domestic violence cases involving minimal or non-physical harm.
Felony Penalties
Felony penalties in New Mexico may include prison time and fines as follows:
- Capital felonies: Life imprisonment or life imprisonment without possibility of release or parole
- First-degree felonies: Up to life in prison and fines up to $17,500.
- Second-degree felonies: Up to 18 years in prison and fines up to $12,500.
- Third-degree felonies: Up to 11 years in prison and fines up to $5,000.
- Fourth-degree felonies: Up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $5,000.
Violent felony charges typically involve serious harm or the use of weapons, such as aggravated assault, armed robbery, or homicide. First-degree felonies like murder can result in life imprisonment.
Collateral Consequences for Violent Crimes
A conviction for a violent crime in New Mexico can impact more than just your freedom. Even after serving your sentence and paying fines, the long-term effects can continue to follow you—personally, professionally, and financially.
Some common collateral consequences you could face include:
- Loss of civil rights: A felony conviction can result in the loss of your right to vote, serve on a jury, or legally possess firearms.
- Employment challenges: Many employers conduct background checks, and a violent offense on your record may disqualify you from certain jobs—especially in education, healthcare, or government.
- Housing difficulties: Landlords may deny housing applications based on a criminal record, making it harder to find stable living arrangements.
- Professional licensing restrictions: Convictions can prevent you from obtaining or keeping licenses required for careers in law, medicine, finance, and other regulated fields.
- Immigration consequences: If you’re not a U.S. citizen, a violent crime conviction can lead to deportation, denial of reentry, or loss of legal immigration status.
These consequences can be just as damaging as the direct penalties of a conviction, which is why it’s essential to take violent crime charges seriously and work with a defense attorney who can help protect your future.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of a Violent Crime?
Being charged with a violent crime doesn’t mean you’ll automatically be convicted. A strong legal defense can significantly affect the outcome of your case. The appropriate strategy depends on the facts and evidence, but some common defenses include:
- Self-defense or defense of others: You may be justified in using force if you were protecting yourself or someone else from harm.
- Lack of intent: Many violent crimes require proof that you intended to cause harm. If the prosecution cannot prove intent, the charges may not hold.
- False accusations: In some cases, individuals are wrongly accused due to mistaken identity, retaliation, or misunderstanding.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Weak or missing evidence can lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
- Alibi: Showing that you were somewhere else when the crime occurred can undercut the prosecution’s case.
Your defense attorney may also challenge the legality of the arrest, the admissibility of evidence, or any violations of your constitutional rights during the investigation.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of a Violent Crime
Facing a violent crime charge in Albuquerque is a serious matter. A conviction can affect every aspect of your life—including your freedom. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney gives you the best chance to protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome.
Your lawyer will be able to:
- Investigate the charges and gather evidence to support your defense
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing
- File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence
- Advocate for you in court and prepare a strong trial defense, if necessary
Your attorney can also explain the legal process, keep you informed of your options, and help you navigate the stress and uncertainty that come with criminal accusations.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Violent Crimes Defense Lawyer
If you’ve been charged with a violent crime in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the decisions you make now could shape the rest of your life. You don’t have to face the justice system alone. At Jones Criminal Defense Attorneys, we provide determined and strategic defense for clients throughout Bernalillo County and beyond.
Our firm understands what’s at stake—from your freedom to your future opportunities—and we’re here to fight for the best possible outcome. Whether you’ve been accused of assault, robbery, or another violent offense, we’ll work to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights at every step.
Call today to schedule a free consultation with an Albuquerque violent crimes lawyer and get the guidance you need during this critical time.
Albuquerque Courts
- District Court Domestic Relations – 400 Lomas Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- State Of New Mexico Metropolitan Courthouse – 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- District Court Grand Jury – 415 Tijeras Ave NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- Albuquerque Federal Building and Courthouse – 421 Gold Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102