Clearing your name is our #1 priority.

get started now
meet the attorneys case results

Las Cruces Criminal Defense Lawyers

Trusted Las Cruces Criminal Defense Attorneys Ready to Assist You

criminal defense attorney las cruces

Las Cruces is located just a few short miles from the Mexico border. Given the heightened enforcement efforts over recent years, the police presence in Las Cruces has grown significantly. This has led to more arrests across all types of crime, especially violent crime and drug crime. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Las Cruces is the third most dangerous city in the state. Much of the violence in Las Cruces stems from the illegal drug trade, making this an area of special focus for law enforcement.

Those facing serious criminal accusations quite literally have their freedom on the line. Even if the crime seems relatively minor, a conviction can forever mar your record, making it difficult to get a job or qualify for certain government benefits. You may also have to deal with probation, fines, court costs, and more. In many cases, there is the very real possibility of jail time. At the New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, our criminal defense attorney in Las Cruces is prepared to stand up for your rights and advocate aggressively on your behalf.

Las Cruces Criminal Defense Lawyer Representing Clients Facing All Types of Crimes

At the New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, our team of lawyers is uniquely situated to vigorously defend you against whatever charges you are facing. With over 22 years of experience handling a wide range of cases, we command a deep understanding of the laws, the local court system, and the prosecutors who bring these cases. A few of the most common types of cases we handle include the following.

Drug Crimes

Drug possession and drug trafficking are perhaps the most common types of crime in and around Las Cruces. The seriousness of a Las Cruces drug offense depends on the type and quantity of the drug, as well as whether it was possessed with the intent to distribute. Drug trafficking charges are the most serious drug crimes. They involve the sale or distribution of Schedule I and Schedule II narcotics.

Theft Crimes

A theft or larceny charge in Las Cruces can instantly upend your life. New Mexico defines larceny as stealing anything of value that belongs to another. Las Cruces’s most common theft crimes include:

  • Misdemeanor shoplifting,
  • Misdemeanor theft/larceny
  • Auto burglary,
  • Motor vehicle theft, and
  • Robbery.

These crimes carry significant consequences based on the value of the property stolen. Theft of property valued under $500 typically results in a misdemeanor charge. However, when the stolen property exceeds $500, or the crime involves breaking into someone’s home or business, you’re facing a felony charge.

A theft conviction can lead to:

A felony theft conviction can make finding employment and securing or obtaining professional licenses difficult. Even a misdemeanor conviction can create hurdles you might not expect. Our criminal defense lawyers in Las Cruces are ready to fight these charges, explore your legal defenses, and work toward reducing the impact of a theft charge on your life.

Violent Crimes

Most Las Cruces violent crimes involve either assault or battery. An assault occurs when someone puts another in fear of an immediate physical injury. Battery, on the other hand, involves causing actual injury to another person. Both assault and battery can be either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the allegations.

Domestic Violence Charges

New Mexico identifies domestic violence under the term domestic abuse. It defines it as an incident by a household member against a spouse, partner, or another household member consisting of or resulting in:

  • Physical harm,
  • Severe emotional distress,
  • Threats causing imminent fear,
  • Criminal trespass,
  • Criminal damage to property, or
  • Harassment.

Depending on the circumstances, domestic violence can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If the alleged victim suffers severe injuries or if the alleged perpetrator used a weapon, felony charges are likely.

Consequences of a domestic violence conviction include jail time, fines, mandatory counseling, and restraining orders. New Mexico law also allows for the enhancement of penalties for repeat offenders, which means prior convictions can lead to longer sentences and steeper fines.

If you’re facing domestic violence charges, our experienced criminal lawyers in Las Cruces are prepared to protect your rights and future.

Sex Crimes

Although many sex crimes are based on the flimsiest of evidence, these cases can still be challenging to defend. Often, prosecutors will try to bring in a defendant’s “prior bad acts.” This can cause serious prejudice in the eyes of the judge or jury.

There are many types of Las Cruces sex offenses. However, the most common are:

  • Rape,
  • Sexual assault,
  • Child molestation, and
  • Criminal sexual conduct.

The most serious sex offense is aggravated rape, which involves the rape of a child under 13 years of age with the intent to kill or with a depraved mind without regard for human life. Punishments for sex offenses vary significantly, with a maximum term of life imprisonment for aggravated rape.

Homicide

Homicide is defined as the deliberate killing of another person. There are several types of New Mexico homicide offenses. Each requires the prosecution to prove that the defendant acted either intentionally or in an extremely reckless manner, demonstrating an utter disregard for human life.

Homicide offenses include:

  • Involuntary manslaughter,
  • Voluntary manslaughter,
  • Felony murder, and
  • Murder.

Punishments for a Las Cruces homicide offense range from 18 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter to life in prison for certain types of murder.

It is important to remember that every type of crime also has its defenses.  Those facing serious criminal accusations should not give up hope. At the New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, we represent clients in all criminal cases, regardless of the seriousness.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Las Cruces for Immediate Assistance

criminal lawyers las cruces

If you are facing criminal charges in Las Cruces, give the attorneys at the New Mexico Criminal Law Offices a call. We will work closely with you to develop a strong defense against whatever crimes the government has brought against you. We have more than 22 years of experience successfully representing clients in a wide range of criminal matters. You can rest assured that you are in good hands when you bring us onto your team. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys, give us a call today. You can also reach out to us through our online form, and one of our lawyers will get in touch with you.

Resources: 

  • LCPD Annual Report 2023, City of Las Cruces (2023), link (pages 14-16)
  • Domestic Abuse, New Mexico Courts (2024), link