Albuquerque Gun Crime Lawyer

Trusted Gun Crime Attorney in Albuquerque, NM

The state of New Mexico prosecutes weapons crimes harshly to keep residents safe. However, this also means that if you’re convicted of a gun crime, you could face serious criminal penalties. If you’re facing a gun crime charge in Albuquerque, it’s crucial that you contact an Albuquerque gun crime lawyer who can explain your rights and begin building a powerful defense on your behalf.

King Law Firm: Albuquerque’s Criminal Defense Firm

At King Law Firm, our Albuquerque criminal defense lawyers provide thorough legal support by guiding our clients through every step of the legal process while fiercely protecting their rights. Our attorneys have extensive negotiation experience and are well-equipped to litigate on your behalf at trial. We pride ourselves on being trustworthy, knowledgeable, and accessible to clients. When you need unbiased, powerful representation in Albuquerque, you can count on our team.

Understanding Gun Crime Laws in New Mexico

Data shows that in 2023, New Mexico had the fourth-highest overall gun death rate in the country. Additionally, in 2022, there were at least 25 domestic violence-related homicides in New Mexico, and 60% of them involved the use of a firearm.

To protect the public and keep up with changing equipment, gun safety laws and regulations are constantly evolving. However, this can make it difficult for gun owners to keep up with restrictions. The severity of a crime, the weapon involved, and the intent of the gun owner can all impact the criminal penalties that come with a gun crime charge.

While some weapons offenses are misdemeanors, many carry felony penalties if you are convicted. The defendant’s prior criminal history and other mitigating or aggravating factors can also impact the consequences they receive. Common penalties for gun crime charges in New Mexico include:

• Loss of the right to own a firearm
• Jail or prison time
• Fines and court fees
• Loss of professional licensing or career
• Permanent criminal record

Common Gun Crimes in New Mexico

It’s important to be aware of common gun crimes seen throughout the state to protect yourself and your rights to bear arms. At King Law Firm, gun crimes we commonly represent in Albuquerque and beyond include:

• Unlawful Carrying: New Mexico residents are permitted to carry loaded weapons only in certain situations. You must have proper licensing, only carry the weapon in certain areas, and keep it stored in a safe place. If you carry a gun unlawfully, including onto school premises or in a public building without the proper license, you can be arrested.
• Negligent Use: It is illegal to carry a firearm in New Mexico while under the influence, fire into a building or vehicle, or otherwise knowingly endanger someone or their property while using a deadly weapon.
• Prohibited Possession: It is unlawful for certain people to possess a firearm, including felons, minors, and individuals subject to possession orders.
• Possessing Illegal Types of Guns: Firearms such as automatic weapons, sawed-off shotguns, and even some alterations, including silencers, are illegal to own.

Why You Should Hire a Gun Crime Lawyer in Albuquerque

It is important to hire a gun crime lawyer in Albuquerque as soon as you are facing charges. The sooner you hire a skilled defense attorney, the sooner they can begin evaluating the evidence against you and protecting your rights. The team at King Law Firm is deeply familiar with New Mexico’s firearms laws as well as with local courts in Albuquerque. We can use this knowledge and experience to build a powerful defense on your behalf and protect your future.

Gun crime cases at the state level in Albuquerque are typically handled through the Second Judicial District Court system for Bernalillo County. Federal-level gun violations are instead more likely to be processed by the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico.

FAQs

How Much Does a Gun Crime Lawyer Cost in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, the cost of hiring a gun crime lawyer can vary greatly depending on the complexity of your case. Generally, the more time a lawyer has to spend on your case, the more expensive it may be. This means that a case that is settled outside of court through negotiations may cost less than a case that goes to trial. You should discuss all potential pricing concerns with your lawyer when you have your initial consultation.

What Are the Gun Laws in Albuquerque, New Mexico?

There are many gun laws in Albuquerque, New Mexico, surrounding the purchase, possession, and use of firearms. Lawful gun owners can open carry a weapon, loaded or unloaded, without a permit, but concealed carry requires a valid license. You cannot possess illegal types of firearms or use a gun negligently without facing criminal penalties.

What Are the Penalties for a Gun Crime Conviction in Albuquerque?

The legal penalties for a gun conviction in the state of New Mexico depend on the severity of the criminal charges, the extent of the damages caused, the defendant’s prior history, and other relevant case details. Common penalties for a gun offense include a prison sentence, fines, court and legal fees, loss of firearm rights, loss of a professional license, and more.

How Long Does It Take to Settle a Gun Crime Case in New Mexico?

The amount of time it takes to settle your gun crime case will depend on a wide range of factors, including the complexity of your case, whether your case goes to trial, if your case is being heard at the state or federal level, and more. Your attorney can give you an estimate of your case’s timeline after reviewing the facts.

Connect With a Skilled Albuquerque Gun Crime Attorney Today

If you or a loved one is facing a weapons charge, it is strongly recommended that you take action sooner rather than later. At King Law Firm, our experienced defense attorneys stand ready to guide you through every step of your gun crime case while offering insightful support and fierce representation. Reach out to our team today to schedule an initial consultation.