Traffic Tickets
Traffic Offense Attorney in New Mexico
A traffic ticket may seem like a minor issue, but in New Mexico, even a single citation can lead to serious and lasting consequences. From costly fines and points on your license to insurance hikes, license suspension, or even jail time, the impact of a traffic violation can reach far beyond the ticket itself. What starts as a small mistake can quickly affect your driving privileges, employment, and financial stability.
At Mitchell Law Offices, LLC, Attorneys Aaron Mitchell and Tyler Tuminski have built a reputation for strategic, aggressive, and results-driven defense in traffic and criminal cases across New Mexico. Whether you’re accused of speeding, reckless driving, careless driving, or operating on a suspended or revoked license, our attorneys bring extensive courtroom experience and a deep understanding of New Mexico’s traffic laws and local court procedures to every case.
Attorney Aaron Mitchell, the firm’s founder, is known for his commanding courtroom presence and uncompromising attention to detail. He has successfully defended clients in some of the most challenging traffic and criminal matters statewide, from DWI and vehicular offenses to serious felony cases.
Attorney Tyler Tuminski complements this approach with sharp legal analysis, persuasive advocacy, and a relentless focus on client success. Together, Mitchell and Tuminski form a powerhouse defense team, combining strategy, experience, and precision to challenge radar readings, cross-examine officers effectively, and uncover flaws in the State’s case.
Whether negotiating for reduced charges or fighting for full dismissals, our goal is simple: protect your license, your record, and your future.
If you’ve received a traffic citation or are facing a driving-related criminal charge anywhere in New Mexico, don’t plead guilty, accept a penalty assessment, or pay the fine without understanding your options. Contact Mitchell Law Offices today for a free consultation.
Potential Consequences of a Traffic Violation
A traffic violation conviction can have serious repercussions beyond just paying a fine. Depending on your driving history and the nature of the offense, you may face several direct and collateral consequences, including:
Before pleading guilty or attempting to handle the situation alone, schedule a consultation with a traffic ticket attorney at Mitchell Law Offices, LLC. We can assess your case and help you avoid or mitigate these potential consequences.
Understanding Traffic Violation Convictions
If you are convicted of a traffic violation in criminal court, your driver’s license may be at risk of suspension through the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). Once a conviction occurs, state law mandates that the court must send an abstract of record to the MVD within ten (10) days. This document contains key details about your citation, including:
- The traffic offense charged.
- The offense you pleaded to or were found guilty of in court.
- The sentence imposed by the court.
Once the MVD receives the abstract, they will assess the appropriate number of points against your driving record, which may lead to further penalties.
New Mexico’s Penalty Assessment Program
Certain traffic offenses in New Mexico fall under the Penalty Assessment Program, which means they do not require a court appearance. If you are cited for a traffic offense categorized as a penalty assessment, it is essential to recognize that accepting the assessment is often a final decision. Doing so may forfeit your ability to contest the citation in court at a later date.
Many individuals are unaware of the full consequences when they accept a penalty assessment on the roadside. Consulting with a traffic offense attorney before making a decision can help you understand your rights and options.
Point System and License Suspension in New Mexico
The MVD uses a point system to monitor traffic violations. The number of points accumulated within a one-year period determines the severity of potential penalties:
- Upon an accumulation of at least six (6) points on your driving record within a one (1) year period, the MVD may warn you of the possibility of the suspension of the driver’s license for up to a three (3) month period.
- Upon an accumulation of at least seven (7) to ten (10) points on your driving record within a one (1) year period, a municipal, metropolitan, or magistrate court judge may recommend that your license be suspended for up to three (3) months. If such a recommendation is made, the MVD will automatically suspend your license for the recommended time, “not to exceed three (3) months.”
- Upon the accumulation of at least twelve (12) points within a one (1) year period, your license will be suspended for a period of twelve (12) months.
Common Traffic Violations and Point Assessments
Not all traffic violations result in points on your record, but many do. Below are examples of violations and the corresponding points that the MVD may assess:
- Seatbelt Violation – 2 Points
- Failure to Signal – 2 Points
- Speeding (6-15 MPH over) – 3 Points
- Improper Turn or Passing – 3 Points
- Following Too Closely – 3 Points
- Failure to Yield – 3 Points
- Careless Driving – 3 Points
- Failure to yield to emergency vehicle – 4 points
- Speeding (16-25 MPH over) – 5 Points
- Racing – 6 Points
- Reckless Driving – 6 Points
- Speeding (26+ MPH over) – 8 Points
For information on the differences between a deferred sentence and a suspended sentence, Click this link: FAQ
Contact a Traffic Ticket Attorney Today
If you have received a traffic ticket, do not assume that your only option is to plead guilty and pay the fine. At Mitchell Law Offices, LLC, we understand how traffic violations can disrupt your life, and we are committed to providing strong legal defense to protect your rights.
Take the first step in defending your driving record today. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced traffic offense attorney in New Mexico and discuss your legal options.