Robbery: Theft through the Use of Violence

There are many different types of theft. Fraud, shoplifting, identity theft, and petit theft are all recognized as acts of stealing money or other valuables from a victim or group of victims. These acts are charged according to the value of the money or property stolen. But there is another type of theft that is not charged this way. Robbery, the act of stealing money or property directly from a victim by using force or violence on him or her is considered to be a violent crime. How a robbery is charged depends on whether a weapon was used to commit the theft and if so, the type of weapon used.

If you have been charged with robbery or any other violent crime, it is critical to your future liberty that you work with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. The right lawyer can potentially be key to having your violent crime charge reduced or even dismissed.

Robbery is a Felony

There are two types of robbery charge in Florida: basic robbery and armed robbery.

Basic robbery is a second degree felony. Individuals convicted of this offense can face up to 15 years in state prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and various other penalties like community service, probation, and the revocation of certain professional licenses.

Armed robbery is an act of robbery committed while armed with a weapon. This is a first degree felony, the penalties for which include up to $10,000 in fines, up to 30 years in state prison, and other penalties like probation, community service, and the loss of certain certifications. Although the type of weapon used and how it was used may be considered when determining the sentence for an individual convicted of armed robbery, the mere presence of a weapon brings a charge from one of basic robbery to the much more serious armed robbery.

Intent is Key with All Violent Crimes

Remember, a robbery charge is not a robbery conviction. In order to find you to be guilty of robbery, the court must prove that you intended to provoke fear in your victim through the use of violence or physical force in order to commit an act of theft. If this cannot be proven, you cannot be found guilty of robbery. Work with your lawyer to develop a defense strategy that makes use of available evidence or the lack of evidence on the part of the prosecution to demonstrate that you are not guilty of robbery.

Work with an Experienced Miami Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with robbery or any other type of violent offense, start working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to develop an effective legal defense strategy. Our team of criminal defense lawyers at Ratzan & Faccidomo, LLC can help you defend your case against a robbery charge. Contact our firm today to schedule your free legal consultation with a member of our team.

Resource:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0800-0899/0812/Sections/0812.13.html