Imagine this: You’re a respected member of your community, living a quiet and honest life. Then, one day, out of nowhere, you’re accused of a sex crime you didn’t commit. The accusation alone sends shockwaves through your life—friends grow distant, colleagues avoid eye contact, and even those closest to you start to question your innocence. You feel like the walls are closing in, and no one is willing to listen to your side of the story. That’s when a Los Lunas sex crimes attorney can step in to protect your rights and fight for the truth.
False accusations of sex crimes are devastating. They not only threaten your reputation and career but can also jeopardize your personal relationships and freedom. At New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, we understand the overwhelming fear, shame, and frustration you’re feeling. It’s important to remember that you are not alone, and you don’t have to face this battle without help.
Many people do not know the first thing about a sex crimes lawyer until their freedom depends on one. We know you need a sex crimes attorney who cares. With decades of experience guiding clients through the complexities of the criminal justice system, our skilled attorneys are committed to helping you take control of your life again. We’ll be your voice as we fight to bring the facts to light and protect your rights and future. Together, we can navigate this challenging journey and work toward a resolution that allows you to move forward with confidence.
How Can a Los Lunas Sex Crimes Attorney Help My Case?
Depending on the facts of your case, a criminal defense attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea agreement to a light, advantageous sentence or lesser charges. Alternatively, if a valid legal defense relieves you of any criminal liability, the prosecutor may agree to drop your charge.
If you are looking for an attorney who will negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf and advocate for a desirable outcome, you have come to the right place.
Our team can also request the police report detailing the alleged offense and prepare a strategy in the event your case goes to trial. Contact a sex crimes lawyer in Los Lunas today so we can start reviewing your case.
Sex Crimes in New Mexico: An Overview
Sex crimes in New Mexico encompass a wide range of offenses, from indecent exposure to aggravated sexual assault. These crimes are taken seriously by law enforcement and prosecutors, with penalties ranging from probation to lengthy prison sentences. Even an accusation of a sex crime can carry life-altering consequences, making it critical to understand the legal landscape.
Under New Mexico law, sex crimes are classified based on the nature of the alleged offense and the circumstances surrounding it. Common charges include criminal sexual penetration, criminal sexual contact, and sexual contact with a minor.
Each of these charges comes with its own unique legal definitions, evidentiary requirements, and potential defenses. The consequences of a conviction are severe and far-reaching, often including long-term mandatory registration as a sex offender, restrictions on housing and employment, and significant social stigma.
Navigating the criminal justice system in such cases is daunting. That’s why having a knowledgeable attorney is essential to ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled with care and precision. At New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, we specialize in defending against sex crime accusations, offering personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation. Reach out to a sex crimes attorney in Los Lunas at the New Mexico Criminal Law Offices if you have additional questions.
Now, let’s take a more detailed look at some of the most commonly charged sex offenses.
Indecent Exposure
New Mexico defines indecent exposure as knowingly and intentionally exposing a “primary genital area” to public view. According to the statute, the primary genital area means the mons pubis, penis, testicles, mons veneris, vulva, or vagina. Indecent exposure is considered a misdemeanor offense and carries the potential of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. An indecent exposure conviction does not require registration as a sex offender.
Aggravated indecent exposure occurs when someone knowingly and intentionally exposes their primary genital area in a lewd and lascivious manner with the intent to threaten or intimidate another person. That means the indecent exposure must be coupled with one of the following offenses:
- Battery,
- Aggravated battery,
- Criminal sexual penetration,
- Child abuse,
- Indecent exposure to a child under 18,
- Assault,
- Aggravated assault, or
- Assault with intent to commit a violent felony.
Aggravated indecent exposure is considered a fourth-degree felony and carries the potential of up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
Criminal Sexual Contact
New Mexico defines criminal sexual contact (New Mexico Statutes Annotated 1978, Section 30-9-12) as unlawful and intentional touching of or application of force, without consent, to the unclothed intimate parts of another adult or causing another adult to touch one’s intimate parts. Criminal sexual contact is considered a misdemeanor unless it is committed:
- While the accused was armed with a deadly weapon,
- By use of force or coercion against a victim who suffers an injury, or
- With the assistance of one or more persons.
If one of these factors exists, the criminal sexual contact charge is considered a fourth-degree felony.
Criminal Sexual Contact of a Minor
New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 30-9-13 defines criminal sexual contact with a minor as unlawful and intentional touching or applying force to the intimate parts of a minor or unlawfully and intentionally causing a minor to touch one’s intimate parts. According to the statute, “intimate parts” means the primary genitalia area, groin, buttocks, breasts, or anus. The maximum prison sentence for conviction of criminal sexual contact of a minor is fifteen years, and the minimum is eighteen months. Additionally, the court can require you to register as a sex offender upon your conviction.
Criminal Sexual Penetration
In New Mexico, the crime of rape is referred to as criminal sexual penetration. Criminal sexual penetration is defined as the unlawful and intentional causing of a person to engage in sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, or anal intercourse or the causing of penetration of the genital or anal openings of another.
Criminal sexual penetration in the first degree occurs when the act is committed against:
- A child under 13, or
- By use of force or coercion that results in great bodily harm or great mental anguish to the victim.
Criminal sexual penetration in the first degree is considered a first-degree felony. A typical first-degree felony carries the potential of up to 18 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
Criminal sexual penetration in the second degree occurs when the act is committed:
- While the accused was armed with a weapon,
- By use of force or coercion against a child between 13 and 18 years of age,
- By use of force or coercion against a victim who suffers an injury,
- With the assistance of another person, or
- Against an inmate by a person in a position of authority at the correctional facility.
Second-degree criminal sexual penetration is considered a second-degree felony. Such a felony carries the potential for up to nine years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Common Defenses for Sex Crimes in New Mexico
When facing allegations of a sex crime, a strong defense is crucial. A sex crime attorney can explore various strategies tailored to your case. Common defenses include proving mistaken identity, showing consent between the parties, and challenging the credibility of witnesses or evidence. Additionally, improper police procedures or violations of your constitutional rights may lead to the exclusion of key evidence.
Every case is unique, and finding a strong legal advocate to evaluate your situation and determine the best course of action is the best way to get an advantageous outcome. You could Google “sex crime attorney near me,” but that will likely lead to a very long list of attorneys that you’ll have to meticulously research to find a good one. Or, you could speak to a sex crime defense attorney at the New Mexico Criminal Law Offices. We are highly skilled at identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and vigorously defending your rights. Call today and come talk to us. We know how to get the job done, and we look forward to meeting you.
Do You Have Questions About a Charge in New Mexico? Contact a Los Lunas Sex Crimes Attorney Today
We treat our clients like more than just another case walking through our doors. At New Mexico Criminal Law Offices, we dedicate one-on-one time with our potential clients to learn the facts of their cases and discuss their expectations. Our clients receive individualized attention that helps us prepare a defense strategy based solely on the facts of your case.
Our team is committed to listening to your concerns, investigating the allegations against you, and determining whether a valid legal defense applies to your case. With over 30 years of combined experience representing criminal defendants in New Mexico, we are confident that we have what it takes to defend our clients against sex crime accusations. Contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.