Plea Bargain
A court trial is time-consuming and can be costly for both sides, so state prosecutors often offer plea bargains to individuals facing misdemeanor or felony charges. When you accept a plea bargain, you agree to plead guilty to a criminal charge in exchange for reduced sentencing. You may be able to reduce your charges and avoid significant jail time if you are offered a plea bargain.
A plea bargain may result in leniency, but it will still leave the individual with a criminal record. There are pros and cons to such deals, so you need to speak with a criminal defense lawyer in New Mexico to talk about whether a plea bargain is the best way to resolve your case.
Court Defense
Sometimes a plea agreement is not your best interests, and the best way to avoid conviction is to present a defense in court. There are some risks to going to court because if your defense strategy doesn’t work, you could be convicted and sentenced. You need to consider your decision carefully and make sure you understand the ramifications and costs associated with appearing in criminal court.
If you and your attorney have decided that a jury trial is in your best interest to take your case to trial, you could avoid a conviction and a criminal record. But if your defense strategy isn’t effective, you could face a harsher penalty than you would have received with a plea bargain.
If you decide to go to criminal court, you may be ordered to appear in one of the courts listed below, depending on where you live or were charged:
Criminal courts in New Mexico:
2nd Judicial District Courts
400 Lomas Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
Santa Fe Magistrate Court
2056 Galisteo St, Santa Fe, NM 87505
First Judicial District Court – Santa Fe County Courthouse
225 Montezuma Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501
Don’t make any decisions about how to plead before you consult with a criminal defense lawyer. Our legal team in New Mexico will evaluate your case, and the evidence mounted against you, and help you make a wise decision about your case. Call and set up a consultation with one of USAttorneys’ criminal defense lawyers today so that you know what is in store for you and your future.
