Robbery is one of the most serious theft-related crimes recognized under state law. This offense involves taking property from someone’s person without their consent. These charges might involve threats or acts of violence, which is why the penalties associated with robbery cases are often significant.
A robbery arrest can leave you feeling hopeless, but the reality is that these cases are often winnable. Our compassionate defense attorneys could review the allegations against you and identify the best possible strategy for your case. Let our Butler robbery lawyer advocate on your behalf during this difficult time.
Robbery is considered one of the most serious theft-related crimes because it involves the use of force, threats, or intimidation. Unlike shoplifting or burglary, robbery occurs when someone takes or attempts to take property directly from another person by inflicting injury, threatening harm, or using force. Even if no one is physically hurt, giving someone reason to fear for their safety during a theft can be enough to elevate the charge.
Robbery is always classified as a felony, with penalties that vary depending on the circumstances. For example, if serious bodily injury occurs, the charge can be a first-degree felony carrying a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison. The use of a weapon during a robbery can also significantly increase penalties if you are convicted.
A robbery conviction not only results in severe criminal penalties but also creates lasting collateral consequences, including lost job opportunities, housing options, and professional licenses. Because of the gravity of these charges, it is critical that you allow our Butler robbery attorneys to help you fight back.
Hiring our experienced robbery lawyers in Butler helps put you in the best position possible to avoid a conviction. We start with evaluating the allegations against you and developing a strategy. Some of the most common defense approaches in a robbery case include the following:
The state has to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and they are not always able to do so. We might opt to focus your strategy on the weakness of the state’s case instead of suggesting alternative suspects or theories.
You are entitled to certain protections under the U.S. Constitution. If the police unlawfully search your home or seize your property, we may be able to have any evidence they discover excluded from trial. In some situations, this may be enough to push the government to dismiss the charges against you.
Robbery is a crime of intent, meaning that you can only commit it when your goal is to take someone else’s property. If your arrest is the result of a misunderstanding or mistake, you could avoid a conviction by highlighting your lack of criminal intent.
It is not uncommon for robberies to involve two people who have never met before. Couple this unfamiliarity with a crime that often occurs at night, and you have the right conditions for a mistaken identity. Our attorneys could show a jury that a reporting witness mistakenly identified you as the person responsible for the crime.
If you have been accused of robbing someone by using threats or force, it is critical for you to seek out legal guidance right away. A strong strategy can put you in a position to have these charges dismissed or obtain a favorable plea bargain.
Our attorneys are all former prosecutors, making them uniquely well-equipped to defend you against your robbery charges. Reach out to our Butler robbery lawyer at Benjamin Levine Law today to learn more.