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...
What does New Mexico’s new marijuana law permit?
If you use marijuana, there was good news earlier this year. In March, the New Mexico Governor signed a bill that makes some marijuana use legal. As with similar efforts across the country, the relaxation of cannabis laws is limited. If you think it applies to you...
Can tribal police arrest non-Native people?
Most people in New Mexico know that there are some strict demarcations between state land and tribal land – and the people who live there. This extends to criminal justice. If a tribal police officer witnesses or suspects criminal behavior by a non-Native person on...
3 questions to ask if the police stop you in the street
If you are walking along the street, and the police stop you, it can soon get unnerving. In most cases, when they stop you for a reason. They want information about something. There is nothing to prevent the police from stopping to chat. Yet, there are limits to how...
Could a New Mexico Drug Court program be the answer if you’re facing drug charges?
If you're facing drug charges, then you're likely aware of the stiff penalties that the court may impose if a judge or a jury convicts you of such a crime. The nature of the offense, drug type and amount of it involved are all likely to dictate how harsh of a sentence...
Can I be arrested for possession of kratom here in New Mexico?
Many people in New Mexico and all over the United States have found the relief they seek from pain through the use of kratom. Although kratom has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia where it is an indigenous plant, some states, cities and municipalities have...
What makes the difference between a voluntary and involuntary manslaughter charge?
Someone lost their life, and you were involved in the situation. Now, you're facing manslaughter charges -- and you're not entirely certain what that means. When you're in serious legal trouble, you can't fully participate in your own defense unless you understand the...
Understanding the consequences of accepting a plea deal
Did you know that over 90% of criminal cases never proceed to trial because the defendants and their attorneys reach a plea deal with prosecutors? If it weren’t for plea deals, the criminal courts would be even more backed up than they already are, and the prisons...
Does civil asset forfeiture reduce major crimes? New study says no
Civil asset forfeiture laws allow law enforcement to seize cash or property from people they suspect of criminal activity. This is done before the person is convicted of any crime. In some cases, police never press any criminal charges at all. The victim of a...
