First Offense DWI/DUI in New Mexico

The state of New Mexico forces convicted offenders in a first DUI in New Mexico case to face both administrative and criminal penalties stemming from their DUI/DWI arrest. Minors and commercial drivers in the state of New Mexico face different penalties than those noted below, and in any case, an offender in a New Mexico DUI/DWI case should consult with legal counsel to determine the specific nature and implications of any criminal charges faced.

Administrative Penalties

• Drivers arrested for DWI in New Mexico face administrative license suspension of ninety (90) days for first offense, with the potential of up to one (1) year upon conviction

• Refusals to submit in New Mexico, under implied consent laws, result in one (1) year mandatory license revocation

• Reinstatement of license will require use of ignition interlock devices for one (1) year, as well as attendance at DWI school, completion of alcohol assessment, or treatment

Criminal Penalties

• First offense convictions in New Mexico carry no mandatory minimum period of incarceration, but offenders do face the potential of incarceration for a period of ninety (90) days

• Community service mandates may be imposed by courts, as well as mandate to attend alcohol/substance abuse treatment or counseling

• Conviction of first offense DWI in New Mexico will influence charging and sentencing in future DWI cases indefinitely

Getting Legal Help

State statutes in New Mexico prevent offenders from employing a plea option involving reduction of DWI charges into less serious criminal or non-criminal offenses. However, with the representation of legal counsel and pending the case-specific circumstances of your arrest, it may be possible to negotiate favorable plea agreement terms or even obtain outright dismissal of the charges. For more information and insight, consult with a New Mexico DWI lawyer to learn more.