Robbery is a crime involving taking property from another or in the immediate presence of another. The crime must be committed by sudden snatching, intimidation or fear of receiving immediate bodily injury, or use of force. This could involve threatening words or actions or by wielding a weapon. These serious charges can lead to life-altering consequences if you are convicted. The good news is that you have the right to speak with a dedicated theft attorney following an arrest.
No one should have to face the justice system on their own. If you have been accused of this serious offense, let an Atlanta robbery lawyer advocate on your behalf. A strong strategy can help you avoid a conviction.
Robbery and theft are two distinct criminal offenses. While theft occurs when someone takes another person’s property, robbery involves the use or threat of force. Additionally, robbery requires directly taking something of value from another person, whereas theft can occur even when no one else is present.
Most consider robbery to be the more serious offense of the two, as the prospect of threatening physical harm goes beyond merely taking something without permission. The result can be a far more serious criminal penalty.
Like any offense, there is the chance to fight back against a robbery conviction with the help of an Atlanta attorney. These efforts start with reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and evaluating any physical evidence the police hold. An aggressive approach can result in the dismissal of all charges, a victory at trial, or a reasonable plea offer.
A robbery conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years. The minimum sentence is one year, but a conviction for robbing an elderly person carries a mandatory minimum of five years. These penalties apply only after a guilty verdict. If the defense successfully avoids conviction at trial, the accused retains a clean record.
There are also collateral consequences to consider. These are hardships that a person will face after being found guilty of a crime. Robbery is a felony that leaves a serious mark on a person’s permanent record.
Being a convicted felon comes with notable downsides, including the loss of constitutional rights related to owning firearms or voting. Other examples include:
These consequences can have a lasting impact on a defendant’s life. Given the high stakes, seeking guidance from experienced legal counsel is crucial. A dedicated attorney in Atlanta can develop a defense strategy that could avoid a robbery conviction and the penalties that come with it.
Few things are more stressful than being accused of a serious crime. Although this situation might seem hopeless, it is important to understand that beating these charges may be possible with the support of an attorney.
Do not put yourself at risk by acting as your own legal counsel. Reach out to an Atlanta robbery lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your defense options. Contact us today for a case evaluation.
