Los Lunas Drug Trafficking Lawyer
Your Second Chance Starts Here
Life in beautiful Los Lunas is good. You’ve worked hard to build the life you’ve always wanted. Now, a single drug trafficking accusation looms over your life, ready to shatter everything you’ve built. Maybe you were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Or perhaps you were legally prescribed medication, but things got complicated. Either way, facing these charges feels terrifying, with serious consequences that could haunt you forever. You don’t have to face this alone. Contact our drug trafficking lawyer to get the justice you deserve.
We’ve helped countless people like you at New Mexico Criminal Law Offices. We understand the fear and uncertainty you’re feeling right now.
What Is Drug Trafficking in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, drug trafficking refers to manufacturing, distributing, and possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute them. This includes illicit drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy (MDMA), and heroin, as well as prescription medications such as oxycodone when distributed illegally. Possession of large amounts of controlled substances may result in trafficking charges under New Mexico law, even if there is no direct evidence of intent to sell.
Key Elements of Drug Trafficking Charges
To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove these three elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- Knowledge—you knew the substance was a controlled drug;
- Possession—the drugs were in your custody or control; and
- Intent—for trafficking charges, the intent to sell or distribute is a critical component.
Drug trafficking can become a federal offense if drugs are transported across state lines or in specific quantities outlined by federal law.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Los Lunas
The consequences of a drug trafficking conviction in New Mexico are severe, with charges varying based on the substance and quantity. These penalties can include:
- Basic trafficking charges—first-time
offenders may face up to n
ine years in prison and fines of up to $10,000; - Enhanced sentences—repeat offenders or cases involving large quantities of drugs could result in 18 years of imprisonment or more; and
- Federal prosecution—cases involving interstate drug trafficking often result in even harsher penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences and substantial fines.
For example, possession of over eight ounces of cocaine or methamphetamine could result in a first-degree felony charge under state law.
A conviction often brings collateral consequences, such as difficulties securing employment, housing, or professional licenses. It could also lead to deportation for non-citizens.
Common Defenses to Drug Trafficking Charges
At New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, we carefully examine every detail of your case to build a robust defense. Some of the most effective strategies include:
- Challenging illegal searches and seizures. When officers violate your Fourth Amendment rights by doing things such as searching without a valid warrant or consent, the evidence against you can often be thrown out under the exclusionary rule. If critical evidence is declared inadmissible, it can fatally weaken the prosecution’s case and result in a dismissal.
- Demonstrating a lack of intent. If the prosecution has no evidence of intent to sell or distribute, they may not be able to prove each element of the crime. This could result in a dismissal of trafficking charges.
- Questioning chain of custody. If the prosecution cannot show a proper chain of custody, the integrity of the evidence could be questioned. Such a mistake could significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Crime lab errors. Lab tests may incorrectly identify substances as illegal drugs, or the mishandling of evidence could create doubt about the prosecution’s claims.
Since every case is unique, our experienced team will design a defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Real-World Implications of Drug Trafficking Charges
Here are three hypothetical scenarios that illustrate how our team can assist you when facing drug-related charges.
Misidentification of Intent
A Los Lunas resident is stopped by police, and prescription pills are found in their vehicle. Due to the quantity, the person faces trafficking charges despite the medication being legally prescribed and intended for personal use. In this situation, our attorneys could present evidence of the prescription and prove there was no intent to distribute, potentially resulting in a dismissal of charges.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Officers discover methamphetamine in someone’s trunk during a routine traffic stop. However, they lacked probable cause to conduct the search. Our team might file a motion to suppress the evidence obtained through the unlawful search. Without this key evidence, the prosecution’s case could collapse, leading to a favorable resolution for the client.
Mistaken Identity in Trafficking Operation
Imagine being falsely implicated in a large-scale drug trafficking operation. By presenting evidence of an alibi and highlighting inconsistencies in the prosecution’s timeline, our attorneys could work to clear the client’s name, potentially resulting in a full dismissal of all charges.
The cases presented here are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee a similar or specific outcome. Every legal situation is unique, and the success of your case will depend on the particular facts and circumstances involved.
Why You Need a Los Lunas Drug Trafficking Lawyer
The stakes in a drug trafficking case are too high to go it alone. Hiring a seasoned drug trafficking attorney ensures you have an advocate who:
- Understands both state and federal drug laws,
- Can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and tactics,
- Has the skills to negotiate plea agreements or advocate for dismissal, and
- Knows how to build a compelling defense to present at trial.
Our New Mexico Criminal Law Offices team uses bold strategies and creative solutions to protect your rights and future.
Fight Back to Protect Your Future
The prosecution is already building its case against you. Don’t let them dictate your future by choosing any attorney from a search for “drug trafficking lawyer near me.”
Go with a team of proven advocates. Since 1997, the New Mexico Criminal Law Offices has stood firm, fighting for our client’s rights and helping them regain control of their lives. Whether you’re facing charges or are under investigation, time is critical.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Possession for Personal Use Enough for a Trafficking Charge?
Yes, if you possess enough of a substance to qualify as such. Specific quantities of drugs automatically trigger trafficking charges—even without evidence of intent to sell. For instance, possession of more than eight ounces of cocaine could result in trafficking charges.
However, if there is no evidence of intent to sell and you don’t meet the quantity threshold for trafficking, you’ll likely be charged with possession. Such charges can still have a highly negative impact on your life, but a drug possession lawyer from our firm can help.
What Are My Rights During a Drug Trafficking Investigation?
If you’re being questioned, remember this: stay silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not consent to searches or answer questions without your attorney present.
How Do Federal Drug Charges Differ from State Charges?
Federal trafficking charges carry harsher penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences. Federal courts also follow different rules of evidence and procedure, making a skilled drug crimes lawyer essential.
Is Marijuana Trafficking Still Illegal in New Mexico?
Yes. While recreational marijuana is legal for personal use, trafficking remains a felony under the law, punishable by up to 18 years in prison.
Resources
- New Mexico Controlled Substances Act, link
- New Mexico Marijuana Trafficking Laws. New Mexico Cannabis Information, link