Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Las Cruces

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Las Cruces, New Mexico?

  The non-emergency phone line of the Las Cruces Police Department is 575-526-0795.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Las Cruces, New Mexico?

  You can acquire a copy of police report from the Las Cruces Police Department by calling its record section at 575-528-4137.

• What types of crimes are committed most frequently in Las Cruces?

  Criminal defense attorneys in Las Cruces frequently defend clients against a variety of misdemeanor and felony charges, such as sexual abuse, theft crimes, drug offenses, assault and battery, domestic violence, and homicide. They also supervise prosecutions for white-collar crimes like money laundering, embezzlement, and credit card fraud.

• How can a criminal defense attorney in Las Cruces assist you during trials?

  Criminal defense attorneys in Las Cruces will professionally represent you in court and question the veracity of the prosecution's evidence. They can thoroughly cross-examine the state's witnesses to point out discrepancies, provide proof of your innocence, bring witnesses in your defense, and propose other hypotheses of the crime.

• Do you need to speak with the police in Las Cruces about your criminal case?

  Avoid discussing the specifics of your case with the police if you are detained in Las Cruces on a criminal accusation. You only need to give them your name, address, and any necessary identification. Also, if you are being held in jail, it's crucial not to discuss your case with anyone besides your lawyer during a private visit.

• Should you get in touch with a criminal defense attorney in Las Cruces after receiving a target notice?

  Yes, you should speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately if you receive a target notice in Las Cruces. A target notice indicates that you are under investigation for a felony-level offense and that a grand jury will hear your case to decide whether there is adequate evidence to bring charges against you. Without representation, a grand jury will almost always find enough evidence to charge you with a felony.

• What are the legal deadlines for filing a criminal charge in Las Cruces?

  In Las Cruces, the time limit for filing a case varies according to the crime's seriousness. The statutes of limitations that apply in each situation are as follows:

  • Two years for misdemeanors
  • Five years for offenses in the third and fourth-degree felonies
  • Six years for offenses in second-degree felonies

  There is no such limitation for first-degree felonies.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.