Facing Gun, Drug, or Customs Charges in Mexicali? Here’s What You Should Know

Legal problems at the U.S.–Mexico border are more common than you think — and Mexicali is no exception. Whether you’ve been detained for firearm possession, drug offenses, or contraband smuggling, it’s essential to act quickly and seek experienced legal representation.

At Justicia Transparente, our criminal defense team provides bilingual legal assistance to foreigners, dual nationals, and Mexican citizens accused of serious offenses in Mexicali, Baja California. We handle federal and state cases before the Centro de Justicia Penal Federal en Mexicali, the Fiscalía General de la República (FGR), and state-level agencies.

Arrested with a Firearm in Mexicali?

Mexico enforces strict gun control laws, and being found in possession of a firearm — even if it’s licensed in the United States — can result in immediate arrest and federal charges. Transporting, importing, or carrying weapons without Mexican permits is considered a serious crime under federal law, regardless of intent.

If you’re caught with a firearm at the Calexico–Mexicali port of entry, at the airport, or within military zones, your case will likely be handled by the FGR and prosecuted in federal court. Penalties can include pretrial detention, high fines, and multi-year prison sentences.

Our attorneys understand how to challenge the arrest procedure, question the legality of searches, and defend your rights in complex federal litigation.

Caught with Undeclared Goods at the Border? Customs Crimes Are Federal Offenses

Cross-border travelers often underestimate the importance of customs regulations. Items such as electronics, health products, or large personal purchases must be declared upon entry into Mexico. Failure to do so can result in charges of customs fraud (fraude aduanero).

Whether you’re crossing through Calexico East, Los Algodones, or other entry points near Mexicali, be aware that even seemingly minor violations can be prosecuted by the Federal Prosecutor’s Office (FGR).

If authorities suspect intentional smuggling or tax evasion, your case may escalate quickly to a full criminal investigation. The first 48 hours after your detention are critical. Legal intervention during this window can influence whether you’re released, formally charged, or held in custody.

Drug Charges in Mexicali? Even Small Amounts Can Lead to Big Consequences

Drug laws in Mexico are strict — even minor possession of cannabis or prescription medications without proper documentation can result in arrest. Travelers entering through Mexicali’s border zones or airport may be subjected to vehicle searches or personal inspections.

Some of the most common drug-related cases we handle in Mexicali include:

• Possession of marijuana, cocaine, or pills
• Possession with intent to distribute
• Traveling with prescription medications without a doctor’s note
• DUI cases involving narcotics
• Juvenile and student-related drug charges

Foreign nationals are often unfamiliar with their rights under Mexican law and may unknowingly incriminate themselves during questioning. That’s why it’s crucial to have a drug defense attorney involved as early as possible.

Our team has extensive experience defending both U.S. citizens and Mexican nationals arrested in Mexicali and nearby areas such as San Felipe, Valle de Mexicali, and Algodones. We work to reduce charges, secure release, or in some cases, avoid prosecution entirely.

Why Choose Justicia Transparente?

• Bilingual legal team specializing in criminal defense for foreign clients
• Experience before the Federal Criminal Court in Mexicali
• Strategic case planning to prevent pretrial detention
• Representation before both state and federal courts
• Discreet, professional, and urgent attention to every case

Whether you’re dealing with firearm offenses, drug allegations, or customs violations, you need a legal team that understands the complexities of cross-border criminal law.

Don’t Risk Your Freedom — Get Legal Help Now

If you or a loved one has been detained in Mexicali, Baja California, call Justicia Transparente today. Our lead attorney, Germán Terríquez Córdova, has successfully handled hundreds of high-risk criminal cases across the region and can begin working on your defense immediately.

We serve clients detained in:

• Calexico–Mexicali border zones
• Mexicali International Airport
• Centro de Justicia Penal Federal en Mexicali
• Fiscalía General de la República (Mexicali office)