Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Rio Rancho

FAQs

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

  Call 505-891-7226 for non-emergency situations.

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

  To make a request for a police incident report, fill out the request form which can be downloaded from the Rio Rancho Police Department's website. Email the request to rrpdrecords@rrnm.gov or present it at the records division office located at 500 Quantum Road NE in Rio Rancho which is open from Mondays - Thursdays from 9 AM - 4:30 PM including lunchtime. Call 505-891-5904 for more information.

• Can an accused hire both a military lawyer and civilian counsel in a military case in Rio Rancho?

  Yes. You can hire both private counsel and a military lawyer for your case in Rio Rancho. There are benefits to hiring a military lawyer and these include inside information about the staff judge advocate, military prosecutor, and judge. Additionally, they have experience in handling chapter discharges in place of a court-martial and tracking down military witnesses.

• Can you be pressed with criminal charges if you accidentally use counterfeit bills in Rio Rancho?

  Yes. You could face state or federal fraud charges if you use counterfeit bills in Rio Rancho. These charges can be a misdemeanor or felonies depending on the cost of the item you bought using counterfeit bills. Consequences can include fines, probation, and incarceration. Federal convictions for using counterfeit money are more severe though which may range from a $250,000 fine to 20 years of imprisonment.

• If a person is convicted of DWI in Rio Rancho, will interlock systems be installed on their vehicles?

  Yes. If a person is convicted of DWI in Rio Rancho, all vehicles driven by the offender will be installed with ignition interlock systems. The ignition interlock fee comes with a monthly fee that ranges from $50 to $100 monthly plus fees for the installation, removal, and download. Additionally, the offender must also obtain an ignition interlock license that costs $50.

• If a person is arrested in Rio Rancho, should they talk to the police?

  No. If you get arrested in Rio Rancho, you should request to speak with a lawyer and obtain counsel before answering any questions from the police. If you make this request, a lawyer will be provided to you so wait until you have sought counsel from one before talking to the police.

• How can an accused person in Rio Rancho obtain the representation of a public defender?

  To apply for public defender representation, make an appointment with the probation department of the Municipal Court at (505) 891-5991. You can also visit the office located at 500 Quantum Road in Rio Rancho. You need to complete the eligibility requirement which may include bringing financial documents such as current bank statements, IRS papers, and rental fee proof of payment to the interview.

• 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.