If you’re going hunting this year in New Mexico, you know that you probably need to have a license in order to take any game. The standard way that most people approach this is to purchase the license first, go hunting, and then use the license when they’re dropping...
The possible consequences of an embezzlement charge
What is embezzlement? Embezzlement involves stealing money from an employer or money held in one’s trust. If you embezzled funds from your boss in New Mexico, you could be charged with a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the amount you stole. For example, taking...
Being in handcuffs doesn’t mean you are in state custody
Most people in police custody know exactly when they are under arrest. Police officers typically announce that they are placing someone in state custody. This process usually includes placing the suspect in handcuffs and transporting them either to a police holding...
What should you focus on when presented with a search warrant?
If you’re caught off-guard by law enforcement showing up at your door with a search warrant, you’re likely too stunned to read and comprehend it when they hand you a copy. You assume it’s legally valid and that they’re following it, but how do you know? Before we get...
Can you get drunk accidentally or unknowingly?
When you’re putting together a DUI defense, your history matters. What did you do before you were stopped by the police? Is there any reason you’d suspect that you were drugged by another person or intoxicated despite not drinking alcohol knowingly? It is possible...
What happens if you jump bail before your trial?
Thousands of Americans find themselves on the wrong side of the law each year. While some cases are dropped by either the police or the courts, others go through the due legal process. Depending on the nature of the crime, you may be released on bail while awaiting...
Know how to invoke your right to remain silent
Police officers have to read a person their Miranda rights before questioning a person they’ve taken into custody. These rights protect the person from specific violations of the Fifth Amendment. In order to have the protections that are noted in the Miranda rights,...
Understanding voluntary and involuntary manslaughter charges
When someone is accused of a violent crime that ends in another person’s death, prosecutors often charge them with more than one type of offense and let the jury sort out which is most appropriate given the circumstances. This can be particularly true with...
Understanding what being granted immunity means
If you had a relatively minor role in some type of illegal activity, what you know and are willing to share with authorities can help you avoid spending time behind bars. Your knowledge can be a valuable bargaining chip if it’s properly negotiated. What we’re talking...
Is electronic monitoring an option for you?
If you made a mistake and broke the law, but you’re willing to accept the consequences, you might be able to avoid incarceration by entering an electronic monitoring (EM) program after pleading guilty or being found guilty. This program might also be an alternative to...
