Being charged with a criminal offense is a life-changing experience. Unfortunately, too many defendants don't understand the seriousness of the charges they're facing and wait too long to find a qualified criminal attorney. Gary C. Mitchell, P.C. has been handling criminal law cases throughout Ruidoso and the surrounding New Mexico area for nearly 40 years. Here he shares four instances when a person would want to hire the services of a criminal defense lawyer:

• Drug Offenses: Drug-related crimes account for over 1.5 million arrests every year. They can range from possession charges to drug manufacturing and trafficking offenses. All drug-related crimes come with severe penalties. Make sure you have a determined legal representative like Attorney Mitchell fighting for you.
• DUI/DWI: Drunk driving is a serious offense that carries harsh punishment. With a DUI attorney on your side, you can challenge the charges against you, examine the efficacy of any sobriety tests administered, and potentially negotiate for lighter or reduced penalties.
• Fraud: Fraud charges can run the gamut from a single forged check to a multi-million dollar identity theft scheme. The severity of penalties is usually determined by the type of fraud committed. A criminal defense lawyer will work with you to make your side of the story known, admit into evidence all pertinent paperwork and documentation, and negotiate on your behalf.
• Violent Crimes: Being charged with a violent crime like murder, attempted murder, or sexual assault are the most serious criminal charges one can face. A criminal defense attorney serves as your voice throughout the legal process, stating your case, dealing with prosecutors, and striving to maintain your innocence until proven otherwise.

Call Gary C Mitchell, P.C. at (575) 257-3070 to schedule a consultation with a criminal lawyer today. You can also visit his website to learn more about his services as a personal injury lawyer and civil rights attorney. Attorney Mitchell has handled more than 3,000 criminal cases and over 200 murder cases. He is committed to giving you the fair and equitable counsel you deserve.