About Arima Law

Q: What types of cases does Arima Law handle?
We represent clients across New Mexico in a wide variety of legal matters, including:

• Criminal Defense:

  • DWI/DUI and license hearings

  • Drug charges (possession, trafficking, prescription drug cases)

  • Assault, domestic violence, and violent crimes

  • Theft, burglary, robbery, and white-collar crimes

  • Juvenile offenses

  • Probation violations and expungements

• Civil Rights Cases:

  • Police misconduct and brutality

  • Wrongful arrest and false imprisonment

  • Unlawful searches and seizures

  • Prisoner rights and jail conditions

  • First Amendment retaliation

  • Cases brought under the New Mexico Civil Rights Act

• Negligence & Personal Injury:

  • Car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents

  • Medical negligence and hospital liability

  • Nursing home neglect and elder abuse

  • Premises liability (slip and fall, unsafe property conditions)

  • Wrongful death lawsuits

• Civil & Business Litigation:

  • Breach of contract and contract disputes

  • Fraud and misrepresentation claims

  • Real estate and property disputes

  • Employment matters (wrongful termination, wage claims, retaliation)

  • Landlord/tenant conflicts

  • General civil litigation in state and federal court

Q: Do you offer free consultations?
Yes. We provide an initial confidential consultation so you understand your options before making any decisions.

Q: How does your fee structure work?
For DWI and many criminal cases, we offer flat-fee pricing. Civil cases are often handled on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we recover damages for you.

DWI in New Mexico

Q: What happens if I’m charged with DWI in New Mexico?
You may face both criminal penalties (jail, fines, probation) and civil penalties (license suspension, ignition interlock device). You only have 10 days to request an MVD hearing to contest license suspension, so act quickly.

Q: Can I avoid jail for a first-time DWI?
Yes, depending on the facts. Many first-time offenders receive probation, community service, and treatment instead of jail. An attorney can fight to reduce or dismiss charges.

Q: Do I really need a lawyer for a DWI?
Yes. A lawyer can challenge breath tests, field sobriety results, police procedure, and negotiate with prosecutors to protect your license and future.

Criminal Defense in New Mexico

Q: What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

• Misdemeanors: Less serious crimes, punishable by up to 1 year in jail.

• Felonies: More serious crimes, punishable by more than 1 year in prison, with increasing severity by degree.

Q: What should I do immediately after an arrest?

• Remain silent and request an attorney.

• Do not answer questions without legal representation.

• Contact a defense lawyer as soon as possible.

Q: Can charges be dismissed?
Yes. Charges may be dismissed if evidence is lacking, if police violated your constitutional rights, or if legal errors were made during the case.

Civil Rights Cases in New Mexico

Q: What is the New Mexico Civil Rights Act?
Passed in 2021, the Act allows New Mexicans to sue in state court when government officials violate their constitutional rights. It eliminates the defense of “qualified immunity,” which previously blocked many victims from recovery.

Q: What types of misconduct does the Civil Rights Act cover?
Any violation of rights under the New Mexico Constitution, including police brutality, unlawful searches, wrongful detention, and other abuses of authority.

Q: Do I have to pay legal fees in a civil rights case?
If you win, the Act requires the government to pay reasonable attorney fees and costs. In many cases, we can represent clients on a contingency fee basis.

Getting Help

Q: Why should I choose Arima Law?

• Local knowledge of New Mexico courts and judges.

• Flat-fee pricing for many criminal cases.

• Commitment to fighting government overreach and protecting constitutional rights.

Q: How do I get started?
Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation and start building your defense.