Felony

Felony Defense Attorney in New Mexico

Facing felony charges in New Mexico is one of the most serious and life-changing experiences anyone can endure. Whether you are accused of a violent crime, drug crime, vehicular homicide, weapons charge, or any other serious felony offense, the criminal justice process moves quickly, and every decision matters. A felony conviction can carry prison time, heavy fines, probation, loss of civil rights, and lasting damage to your career, family, and reputation. In a moment where your future is at stake, hiring the right New Mexico felony defense attorney or lawyer is critical.

At Mitchell Law Offices, LLC, your defense is led and overseen by firm founder Aaron Mitchell, an experienced Albuquerque felony defense attorney and criminal defense lawyer known for his strategic case preparation, direct client communication, and results-driven advocacy. Drawing on his background as a former prosecutor and his years of courtroom experience, Aaron Mitchell surgically designs strong defenses tailored to each case to challenge the State’s evidence, protect your rights, and strategically position your case for the best possible outcome.

Mitchell Law Offices has developed a strong reputation across New Mexico for high-level felony defense and serious criminal defense, trial-ready preparation, and client-focused representation. Online reviews and client feedback from clients across New Mexico consistently emphasize Aaron Mitchell’s professionalism, responsiveness, attention to detail, and commitment to fighting for his clients. From pretrial negotiations to motion practice and trial preparation, every felony defense case is handled with urgency, precision, and a clear strategy.

If you are facing felony charges in Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, or anywhere in New Mexico, Mitchell Law Offices is prepared to stand between you and the full weight of the prosecution. When everything is on the line, you need more than a lawyer. You need a focused, strategic, and highly successful New Mexico felony defense attorney at your side. 

Potential Consequences

Felony offenses are categorized by degrees, each carrying different penalties. If you are convicted of a felony in New Mexico, the severity of your sentence will depend on the classification of the crime and the circumstances surrounding your case.

A conviction may lead to a prison sentence of up to eighteen (18) years and/or a fine of up to $15,000. If the accusation involves the death of a child, the sentence may be increased to life in prison and a possible fine of up to $17,500.

A conviction may lead to a prison sentence of up to nine (9) years and/or a possible fine of up to $10,000. If the accusation involves the death of a child, the sentence may be increased to up to fifteen (15) years in prison and/or a fine of up to $12,500.

A conviction may lead to a prison sentence of up to three (3) years and/or a possible fine of up to $5,000. If the accusation involves the death of another person, the sentence may be increased to up to six (6) years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

A conviction may lead to a prison sentence of up to eighteen (18) months and/or a possible fine of up to $5,000.

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Other Considerations

New Mexico law imposes additional penalties if a firearm is used during the commission of a felony. If you are convicted of a felony that involves a firearm, the judge is required to enhance your sentence based on the specific circumstances:

  • Suppose your allegation involves the use of a firearm in relation to a drug transaction or during the commission of an aggravated burglary, for example. In that case, if you are convicted, the judge is required to enhance your sentence by one (1) additional year of jail/prison time.
  • Suppose your allegation involved brandishing a firearm during the commission of a noncapital felony. In that case, if you are convicted, the judge is required to enhance your sentence by three (3) additional years of jail/prison time.
  • Suppose your allegation involved the discharge of a firearm during the commission of a noncapital felony. In that case, if you are convicted, the judge is required to enhance your sentence by five (5) additional years of jail/prison time.

In addition to New Mexico’s firearm enhancement laws, the maximum sentence you are facing, should you be found guilty of your felony charge by plea or by jury, may also be increased depending on how many prior felony convictions you’ve had. According to New Mexico law, depending on your history of prior felony convictions, your max sentence of possible imprisonment may be increased by a range of one (1) to eight (8) years in addition to the potential imprisonment time allowed for under the felony charge you’ve been found guilty of.

Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction

Beyond prison time and fines, a felony conviction can carry long-term consequences that affect many aspects of your life, including:

  • A felony conviction will result in the cancellation of voting rights until all conditions of your sentence have been completed.
  • A felony conviction will disqualify you from serving as a juror in New Mexico until all conditions of your sentence have been completed.
  • A felony conviction will result in the loss of gun ownership rights.
  • A felony conviction could also result in the loss of employment or difficulty finding employment, inability to obtain certain private, state, or federal loans, inability to obtain certain housing, deportation, and a social stigma that could impact you for the rest of your life.
  • First degree felony resulting in the death of a child - up to life imprisonment
  • Second degree felony resulting in the death of a human being - up to eighteen (18) years imprisonment
  • Third degree felony resulting in the death of a human being - up to six (6) years imprisonment

Collateral Consequences of a Felony Conviction

Beyond prison time and fines, a felony conviction can carry long-term consequences that affect many aspects of your life, including:

  • A felony conviction will result in the cancellation of voting rights until all conditions of your sentence have been completed.
  • A felony conviction will disqualify you from serving as a juror in New Mexico until all conditions of your sentence have been completed.
  • A felony conviction will result in the loss of gun ownership rights.
  • A felony conviction could also result in the loss of employment or difficulty finding employment, inability to obtain certain private, state, or federal loans, inability to obtain certain housing, deportation, and a social stigma that could impact you for the rest of your life.
How We Can Help

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Protect Your Future with an Experienced Felony Attorney

A felony conviction can change your life forever, but you do not have to face these charges alone. At Mitchell Law Offices, LLC, we understand the seriousness of felony charges and are committed to providing dedicated legal representation to protect your rights. Our experienced legal team will fight for the best possible outcome in your case, whether through negotiation, defense at trial, or exploring alternative sentencing options.

Take the first step in protecting your future. Contact Mitchell Law Offices, LLC today for a free initial case consultation. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work toward the best resolution for your case.