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DWI: Sufficiency of Complaints

In the ever seemingly distant past, the Court of Appeals was asked to decide whether a charge of "DWI" on a criminal complaint amounted to sufficient notice for the charge of driving while under the influence of alcohol to proceed forward. The Court held that a charging document alleging a violation of "DWI" was not sufficiently plead to bring a charge of driving while under the influence of alcohol. It reasoned that "DWI" was legally understood as meaning "died without issue." See, State v. Raley, 86 N.M. 190, 192 (N.M. Ct. App. 1974). Subsequently, in State v. Cavanaugh,116 N.M. 826 (Ct. App. 1994), the same Court questioned whether or not Raley was still good law. Sufficiency and adequacy of a criminal complaint remain issues to be litigated from time to time.

In the near future, I anticipate that criminal complaints will also be dismissed for a lack of possible success on the merits based on the allegations on the face of the complaint: complaints will be dismissed if success on the merits is not "plausible." A recent U.S. Supreme Court case found that a civil case can be dismissed for that very reason. I believe there are criminal complaints that should be dismissed, and will be dismissed for the same reason in the near future. Recently, I attempted to litigate the issue. Just prior to my opportunity to litigate the issue, the case was dismissed.... I guess I'll have to wait.

  • We Prepare Every Case For Trial

    Regardless of whether we take it that far, learn how we are fully prepared to fight for you.

    Learn More
  • Experience Makes All The Difference

    We have a reputation for success and an established history of advanced education and training.

    Our Victories
  • Charged With Drunk Driving?

    Get aggressive DWI/DUI defense and fight to keep your license! We also handle vehicle seizures.

    How We Can Help
  • Have You
    Been Arrested?

    Fill out a free case evaluation form and learn how we can fight aggressively on your behalf.

    Get Started Now
The Romero Law Firm, P.A.
Albuquerque Criminal Defense Attorney
Located at 1001 5th St. NW
Albuquerque, NM 87102.
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