Do You Need A Criminal Defense Lawyer To Be Released On Bail In Tijuana, Mexico?

The Mexican government has partnered with the US government to crack down on the high influx of illegal guns and drugs. As a result, many unsuspecting visitors from the US get arrested on criminal charges while visiting Mexico. Here’s all you need to know about the legal system of Mexico and whether or not you should hire a criminal defense lawyer to get released on bail in Mexico.

What Are Criminal Charges In Tijuana, Mexico?

Mexico is quite strict when it comes to certain crimes, especially when these crimes are committed by people coming from across the border. If you’re caught committing these crimes, you can end up in jail and have a permanent record, hindering your career advancement and education.

Illegal firearm possession and drug possession are two of the crimes for which you can end up with a criminal record, and if you don’t have a credible lawyer representing you, you’ll end up getting jail time. These laws were imposed in conjunction with the US government to combat the high gun and drug influx in Mexico from the US, which is why it’s hard for you to get help from the US government if you’re attested.

Who Is A Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Criminal defense lawyers specialize in representing individuals or companies facing criminal charges. In Mexico, criminal defense lawyers also represent clients charged with cross-border crimes such as drug possession and firearm violations. Criminal defense lawyers are skilled in getting their clients’ sentences reduced, and their records splurged.

However, a case’s outcomes depend on the crime’s severity. That’s why in some cases, the clients have to serve the full sentence of their crime, so you need to be aware of the criminal laws to avoid getting arrested in the first place.

Why Hire A Local Bilingual Lawyer?

You need to hire a criminal defense lawyer aware of Mexico’s local justice system. But local lawyers might have difficulty understanding your case because they might not speak your language. So the best option is to look for a bilingual criminal defense attorney such as Fabian Meneses from Meneses Legal.

That way, your lawyer will be able to understand your side of the story and investigate the case properly. Not just that, but it’ll be easier for a bilingual attorney to hunt for evidence and witnesses without the need to hire a translator.

What Happens If You Get Arrested On Criminal Charges?

As a US citizen, upon your arrest, you’ll have to go through the legal process of getting charged or indicted, followed by prosecution and any possible conviction and sentencing. The charges for each crime differ. So if you’re arrested for illegal firearm possession, you may get a prison sentence of up to 5 years. You should know that firearms are banned in Mexico unless you have explicit approval from the Mexican government.

On the other hand, penalties for drug-related crimes are more severe. If charged, you can end up paying hefty fines along with maximum sentencing of 25 years. If you have medical needs that require certain drugs, make sure your prescription doesn’t exceed the amount you need for your trip. Otherwise, the customs consider it drug abuse, and you’ll be arrested.

Bail For Criminal Cases In Mexico

Pre-trial detention in Mexico is only ordered for criminal cases such as drug crimes and firearm violations. After the arrest, the Ministerio Publico determined the severity of the offense, and upon their orders, you can be detained. The Ministerio Publico has 48 hours to determine this. Once they reach a conclusion, your appearance in court will be scheduled, and you’ll be given the right to hire a lawyer.

Should You Consult A Lawyer?

While lawyers aren’t needed for bail in Mexico, you should keep in mind that bail isn’t common in Mexico and is only granted in special cases. If there’s sufficient evidence against you, the Mexican government has the right to detain you until a verdict is passed. So if you’re arrested for cross-border crimes, chances are you won’t get bail or even a chance to return to the US. In such cases, the best way to move forward is to hire a criminal defense lawyer who can prove your innocence and get you out of jail time.

Should You Go For A Public Defender Or A Private Attorney?

After being arrested, you’re entitled to have proper legal counsel. You can pick between a public defender or a private one. Keep in mind that you can’t choose a public defender. If you can’t speak Spanish, you’ll have difficulty dealing with a public defender. On the other hand, you can reach out to a private bilingual attorney.

That way, it’ll be easier for you to explain your case and understand the attorney’s suggestions. Moreover, when it comes to witnesses and gathering evidence, a bilingual attorney won’t have to take help from a third-party translator service. Once you’ve chosen an attorney, you might be eligible for bail considering the evidence they have provided in your favor.

Find Credible Criminal Defense Lawyer In Tijuana, Mexico

Meneses Legal is a law firm in Tijuana, Mexico, founded by Fabian Meneses, who specializes in cross-border crimes. Our law firm has a combined experience of over 40 years and helps clients on various charges such as illegal firearm possession charges, drug-related charges, and even sex crimes. If you’ve been arrested on suspicion of any of these crimes, reach out to us, and we’ll set up a consultation with you in no time. Look at our services or give us a call today!