Robbery is a very serious crime that involves taking someone’s property directly from them by using force or threats. If you have been accused of robbery, you could be facing harsh penalties like heavy fines and years in jail or prison. Also, depending on your immigration status, you could be threatened with deportation.
Robbery charges must be taken extremely seriously. Even if the accusations against you seem minor or you think there are good explanations, a robbery conviction can stick with you forever.
You need an experienced criminal defense lawyer who specializes in robbery cases and will fight aggressively to protect your rights and freedom. At Central Justice, our attorneys can help you navigate this legal process and fight for justice.
What is Robbery?
Robbery is defined under Florida law as the forceful or violent taking of money or other property of another, with intent to either permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of the money or other property. Even if there was no violence or force when taking the property, it can still be robbery as long as the victim is put in fear.
Robbery is different from other crimes like burglary or theft. Neither burglary nor theft requires force, violence, or fear.
Robbery Defenses
There are a few options when it comes to defenses to a robbery charge, and depending on your case, some will be more promising than others. Some of these include:
- Lack of evidence: If you’ve been accused of robbery, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were the one who committed the crime. If they do not have enough evidence for this standard, lack of evidence can be argued.
- Mistaken identity: By having proof that you were somewhere else, mistaken identity can be an excellent defense to a robbery charge.
- Claim of right: This defense is more difficult to argue and should only be used by an attorney. Claim of right is the genuine belief that you have the right to the property. So, while you wouldn’t be taking the property of another, the force requirement of burglary could still be proven.
- No threat of force used: This is a defense that would only reduce charges. Although there may not have been force used, the property of another was still taken.
Penalties For Robbery Convictions
Robbery is a felony and is considered a violent crime. In Florida, the judge has the ability to choose penalties within certain guidelines they are given. Convictions are categorized based on degrees, with the most serious being a first degree and the lowest being a third degree. Depending on the conviction, some sentencing guidelines are as follows:
- Third-degree felonies have a maximum penalty of five years in jail plus a $5,000 fine.
- Second-degree felonies carry a maximum penalty of 15 years in jail and a $10,000 fine, as well as up to 15 years of probation.
- First-degree felonies, depending on any aggravating factors, can carry up to life in prison and a $10,000 fine.
In addition to these penalties, if you’re an immigrant, you could face deportation and a change in immigration status. This is why it’s so important to have excellent legal representation who can keep all factors in mind when defending you.
How Central Justice Can Help
If you or a loved one has been charged with robbery, do not wait to take action. Robbery is an extremely serious crime that can result in spending many years behind bars. Your future is at stake, which is why you need to hire a criminal defense lawyer right away. Our team at Central Justice has the experience and dedication to defend you while keeping circumstances, such as your immigration status, in mind.
We will carefully analyze all the evidence and circumstances to determine the best way to fight the charges you face. Contact us today for a consultation.