Albuquerque DWI Attorneys, Collins & Collins, P.C.

DWI charges are serious. They have serious potential criminal penalties along with other consequences. An experienced DWI attorney can help.

The potential criminal penalties for conviction include jail time, probation, counseling, court costs and fines to name a few.

However, there are many consequences that kick in even prior to or in the absence of a conviction. For instance, every defendant charged with a DWI in New Mexico is placed on conditions of release. These can be very strict depending upon the criminal history of the defendant and the seriousness of the DWI charges. At a minimum, the defendant must not use alcohol or drugs. Violation of the conditions can result in immediate jail time.

In addition to the criminal court consequences, there are also administrative consequences. These include possible loss of driving privileges for breath alcohol scores at .08 or above. In addition, for repeat offenders, the vehicle may be seized by the City of Albuquerque. Both of these consequences may result with or without an ultimate conviction.

Finally, there may be many other so-called collateral consequences. These include employment issues, security clearances (particularly important in Albuquerque due to the national labs and air force base), immigration consequences, child custody consequences and numerous other potential consequences depending upon the defendant’s situation.

In short, if you have been charged with a DWI in New Mexico, is very important to seek legal counsel right away. An experienced attorney will be able to guide you through the process and minimize and often eliminate the many possible penalties and consequences associated with DWI.

Specifically, there are numerous important deadlines that come up quickly in a DWI case. Missing a deadline is often a missed defense opportunity. There are many deadlines and defense opportunities that will arise during the course of the DWI process. It is important to take advantage of each and every one to insure that your rights are fully protected and defended.

The Albuquerque Attorneys at Collins & Collins,P.C. can be reached online or by phone at (505) 242-5958.