Experienced Albuquerque DWI Attorney Working to Protect Your Rights
When facing a charge for driving under the influence in Albuquerque, it can feel like your entire life is on the line. You might worry about how a conviction will affect your future, your family, and your job. The fear of not knowing what comes next can be overwhelming. However, with the right support from a qualified Albuquerque DWI attorney, you don’t have to go through this process alone.
At Lizzy Bunker, Attorney at Law, we understand how serious DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) charges can be in New Mexico. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights, guiding you through the legal system, and helping you fight for the best possible outcome. Our Albuquerque DWI lawyers are here to offer you the experienced representation you can trust.
If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Albuquerque or anywhere in Bernalillo, Taos, Valencia, Sandoval, or Dona Ana Counties, it’s important to talk to a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. New Mexico’s legal system can move quickly, and critical steps—like requesting a hearing with the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) to save your driver’s license—have strict deadlines. You have just 10 days from receiving the Notice of Revocation to submit or postmark your request for an MVD hearing.
Working with an Albuquerque DWI defense lawyer who understands the local court system can make a significant difference. Our knowledge of how local judges and prosecutors handle DWI cases can be a huge advantage. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
What You Need to Know About New Mexico DWI Laws
In New Mexico, it’s illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the point that you can’t operate a vehicle safely. The standard legal limit for your Blood Alcohol Concentration is 0.08 percent for people who are 21 and older. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04 percent, and for drivers under 21, the limit is 0.02 percent. If you’re caught driving with a BAC above those levels, you can be charged under 66-8-102 NMSA 1978.
Implied Consent
When you drive on New Mexico roads, you automatically agree to submit to tests if a police officer suspects you of DWI. These tests can include breath or blood tests. If you refuse, you’ll face an automatic license revocation for one year, and prosecutors may use your refusal as evidence that you knew you were impaired.
Administrative License Revocation
The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division can suspend your license separately from the criminal courts. You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request an MVD hearing. This 10-day deadline is strictly enforced and begins on the date you are served with the Notice of Revocation, which typically occurs at the time of your arrest.
Failing to meet this deadline has serious consequences. If you do not request a hearing within 10 days, your license will be automatically revoked at the end of the 20-day temporary license period, and you will lose your right to contest the administrative revocation of your license. You need to act quickly, so it’s important to contact our Albuquerque drunk driving accident attorneys as soon as possible.
Potential Penalties for DWI in New Mexico
The punishments for DWI in New Mexico depend on how many offenses you’ve had and whether there are any aggravating factors, such as a high BAC or causing an accident. Each conviction can mean jail time, steep fines, and additional penalties beyond what a court can impose.
Below are the basic penalties for different DWI convictions under 66-8-102 NMSA 1978:
- First Offense: Up to 90 days in jail, fines up to $500, mandatory DWI school, community service, and license revocation for 6–12 months.
- Second Offense: 96 hours to 364 days in jail, fines up to $1,000, 2-year license revocation, more community service, and ignition interlock device for 2 years.
- Third Offense: 30 to 364 days in jail, fines up to $750, 3-year license revocation, community service, and ignition interlock device for 3 years.
- Aggravated DWI: If your BAC is 0.16 percent or higher, you refuse to submit to testing, or you injure someone while driving impaired, you’ll face harsher penalties and more mandatory jail time.
A Great Albuquerque DWI Attorney Makes All the Difference
Staring down these types of criminal charges can be unnerving and terrifying. At Lizzy Bunker, Attorney at Law, we know how important it is to feel confident and protected throughout this stressful process. When dealing with a DWI defense attorney in Albuquerque, you want to ensure the lawyer has experience with both state and local laws.
Lizzy Bunker is admitted to both the New Mexico and Texas state bars. She has spent years learning about the legal system and has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Denver, a Master of Social Work from New York University, and a Juris Doctorate from Brooklyn Law School. This background gives her unique insight into the personal and professional challenges that often accompany a criminal charge.
Our firm handles cases in Bernalillo County and surrounding areas. We understand the nuances of each courthouse, the local procedures, and how to work effectively with the prosecutors and judges. This local focus can mean the difference between a reduced charge, a dismissal, or a more serious penalty.
Defense Strategies Your Albuquerque DWI Attorney May Use
Fighting a DWI case can seem overwhelming, but there are often several defenses our experienced Albuquerque DUI lawyers can use:
- Challenging Traffic Stops – Was there a valid reason for the police officer to pull you over? If not, the court may exclude any evidence collected during your stop from being used against you.
- Questioning Field Sobriety Tests – These tests aren’t always accurate. Health issues, bad weather, or improper instructions can produce false results.
- Examining Breath and Blood Tests – If the police did not calibrate the equipment or administer the test correctly, the results may be invalid.
- Exploring Violations of Rights – Law enforcement must follow strict protocols. If the police violated your Miranda rights, you can get evidence against you suppressed.
Legal defenses may be available even if you think your situation is hopeless. For this reason, it’s always wise to speak with a DUI attorney in Albuquerque who understands how to protect your rights and challenge the evidence against you.
Lizzy’s background in social work also helps her understand the personal challenges of facing criminal charges. We provide support beyond the courtroom by helping you manage the stress and uncertainty that often come with a criminal case.
Contact a Trusted Albuquerque Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
If you or someone you love is searching for an Albuquerque DWI lawyer, we’re here to help. You don’t have to go through this time on your own. Give yourself a chance for the best possible outcome with help from our nationally-recognized criminal defense lawyers, who will fight for you.
For more information about our Albuquerque DWI attorney, Lizzy Bunker, contact Lizzy Bunker, Attorney at Law today. If you’re ready to take the first step toward protecting your future, we’d be happy to discuss the specific details of your case with you.
You deserve dedicated, compassionate, and experienced representation. A great New Mexico criminal defense lawyer makes all the difference. Call Lizzy Bunker, Attorney at Law, for a free consultation at 505.464.4844. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and work aggressively to protect your rights and future. Don’t wait—let our DWI lawyers in Albuquerque start protecting your rights today.
