Last month, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed four bills into law that she says will help law enforcement agencies cut down on crime in the state. Two of the laws involve firearms. Gov. Grisham said in signing the laws that while she and the legislature...
Criminal Defense
What are “mitigating” factors in a criminal case?
Ending a criminal case without a conviction – but that’s not always possible. In those cases, the defense focus will often shift toward reducing the consequences of the offense. That’s where mitigation comes in. Mitigating factors are any circumstances or conditions...
How social media activity can compromise a defense strategy
Social media use can result in unintended consequences, from relationship tensions to legal trouble. As a result of this reality, especially for individuals facing criminal charges, it’s important to engage in social media activity with great care. The information...
How can you invoke your Miranda rights?
Miranda rights protect individuals from self-incrimination during police interrogations. They must be explicitly invoked by the individual in custody. Until that invocation, the individual’s statements are legally admissible in court. Understanding how to invoke...
Self-defense and the law: What makes a convincing case?
The law allows you to protect yourself and others from imminent harm. As such, you may not be held criminally liable for using reasonable force to defend yourself or others in a threatening situation. When a self-defense claim arises in court, the key question...
Mistakes to avoid during a police stop
Encountering law enforcement during a police stop can feel intimidating, and you might wonder what to do. It is essential to approach these situations calmly because your demeanor can impact the situation's outcome. If police have reason to believe that you are...
New Mexico’s new law increases shoplifting penalties
In recent years, there’s been an increase in brazen thefts from retailers ranging from home improvement megastores to high-end jewelry stores. These have cost retailers millions of dollars in lost items and damage to their businesses. Further, these thefts are...
Should you testify at your own criminal case?
Few life experiences are as unsettling as facing criminal charges. Unfortunately, even the most conscientious citizen might find themselves on the wrong side of the law. If you are charged with a criminal offense, it helps to understand that you have legal rights to...
4 things to avoid when charged with a DUI
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or other drugs can lead to significant penalties, including high fines, imprisonment and license revocation. In New Mexico, you can be charged with this crime if you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration...
How New Mexico’s Immunity Law Protects You From Some Drug Charges
As the number of fatal drug overdoses has increased alarmingly in recent years, most states have enacted laws that provide some immunity from arrest and prosecution for anyone who calls 911 or otherwise seeks emergency medical help for someone they believe is...