Juvenile Defense Lawyer

Put Your Future in the Hands of a Seasoned Albuquerque Juvenile Defense Lawyer

When a minor faces criminal charges in New Mexico, the stakes can feel overwhelming. The juvenile justice system operates under different rules than the adult system, it tends to be a system of rehabilitation rather than punishment, but the consequences can still affect a young person’s life for years to come. A dedicated juvenile defense lawyer offers legal protection, guidance, and skilled advocacy to secure the best possible outcome and preserve a child’s future.

What Does a Juvenile Defense Lawyer Do?

A juvenile defense lawyer is a lawyer focused on representing clients under the age of 18 who face criminal charges. This legal professional understands the special rules, procedures, and programs unique to the juvenile system.

The main responsibilities of a juvenile defense lawyer include:

Types of Juvenile Cases Handled

Juvenile offenses can range from minor infractions to serious felonies. Regardless of the charge, the legal process requires an attorney who can adapt strategies to each unique situation.

Each case presents a unique challenge. The severity of the charge can impact whether a child remains under juvenile court supervision or gets transferred to adult court. New Mexico juvenile defense attorney Lizzy Bunker’s main goal is to keep the case in juvenile court whenever possible, where there is a greater focus on rehabilitation and a chance for second chances.

Why Representation Matters: The Porfirio Brown Case

Not every young defendant has a direct path through the courts. 14-year-old Porfirio Brown faced second-degree murder charges in the death of his 13-year-old peer, Amber Archuleta. With stakes this high, many feared Porfirio could face years of incarceration, potentially even being charged as an adult.

After a thorough investigation and months of battling in the courtroom, our defense team emphasized issues with the police investigation, showed the prosecution lacked vital proof, and highlighted Porfirio’s young age and personal circumstances. The result? The charges were dismissed in the fall of 2024. This case underscores how a focused and well-prepared juvenile defense lawyer can uncover weaknesses in the evidence and argue for the minor’s best interests.

If you’re interested in reading more about this verdict, you can take a look at our results here.

Will My Child Automatically Go to a Juvenile Detention Center if Charged?

No. In New Mexico, the decision to detain a minor depends on factors like the severity of the offense, the child’s prior record, and concerns about flight risk or community safety. These points are reviewed during a detention hearing. A judge often strives for the least restrictive option, such as probation or community placement, especially for first-time or nonviolent offenses.

Can My Child Be Tried as an Adult in New Mexico?

Yes, under certain circumstances. New Mexico law allows the transfer of a child to district court based on the crime’s seriousness and the child’s age. For example, in In re Doe, 89 N.M. 700, a minor was transferred to district court for offenses including robbery and felony murder. Additionally, State v. Doyal, 59 N.M. 454 held that youth over 14 may be treated as adults if societal needs for crime prevention and punishment are compelling. A juvenile defense lawyer will usually attempt to keep the case in juvenile court, where rehabilitation remains a priority.

Do Parents or Guardians Need to Attend All Hearings?

While no specific statute in New Mexico mandates parental attendance at every hearing, it is strongly recommended. Active involvement by parents or guardians demonstrates support and helps ensure ongoing communication with the court. Judges may also require parental presence to confirm there is a responsible figure overseeing the child’s progress.

Potential Outcomes in Juvenile Court

When facing charges as a juvenile the priority of the court is to focus on rehabilitation, rather than punishment. It’s important to know that this should not be misinterpreted as leniency. Without the proper representation, charges can quickly escalate to rather sever penalties.

While each case differs, possible outcomes include:

• Informal Resolution: Minor crimes may lead to warnings, mandated counseling, or restitution if the child agrees to comply with conditions.
• Probation: A child lives at home under strict rules (such as curfew, school attendance, counseling).
• Deferred Adjudication: The case is set aside if the child meets set requirements. If successful, the charges can be dismissed.
• Detention: A short- or long-term stay in a juvenile facility if the crime is serious or if the child repeatedly violates court orders.
• Placement in a Residential Program: In some instances, minors may be sent to a treatment facility focusing on education, therapy, or behavioral skills.
• Imprisonment: Although reserved for severe crimes such as in the case of murder, rape, and other aggravated crimes, consequences may escalate to adult sentences.

Obtaining the best possible outcome in each case requires nuanced legal skills in the area of juvenile law and a solid working relationship with judges and probation officers. This is where a seasoned juvenile defense lawyer proves essential.

Steps to Take If Your Child is Charged with a Crime in New Mexico

When a minor faces criminal charges in New Mexico, time is of the essence. Hiring a dedicated New Mexico juvenile defense lawyer like Lizzy Bunker early in the process can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Below are several steps families can take to protect a young person’s future:

1. Contact a Juvenile Defense Attorney Immediately

A juvenile attorney will advise on what to say or not say to law enforcement, provide a clearer picture of the legal process, and begin building a strong defense strategy.

2. Attend All Hearings

Parental or guardian involvement demonstrates a stable support system at home. New Mexico courts often consider the level of family engagement when determining a minor’s release conditions, sentencing options, or eligibility for community-based programs.

3. Discuss Potential Services

Ask about counseling, treatment programs, or educational opportunities that may serve as sentencing alternatives. A committed New Mexico juvenile defense attorney like Lizzy Bunker can advocate for these resources, helping the young person address underlying issues and stay on track for a brighter future.

Our team understands the tremendous stress children and their families experience when facing criminal charges. We’ve compiled resources for New Mexico families looking for support during these challenging times on our resources page.

Contact a Dedicated Juvenile Defense Lawyer

Juvenile charges can lead to life-changing circumstances, but they do not have to derail a young person’s entire future. Working with the experienced juvenile defense attorney Lizzy Bunker and her team can open doors to better outcomes, whether that means reduced charges, shorter sentences, or a complete dismissal of the case.

Contact Lizzy Bunker, Attorney at Law today at 505.464.4844 for a free case consultation. Learn how we can help protect you or your child’s rights and nurture a brighter future.