Robbery charges are more severe than theft charges because they involve an element of force or violence. The potential penalties for a robbery conviction can impact your personal and professional life, making obtaining education, housing, funding, and employment more challenging. A Martinez robbery lawyer could investigate the circumstances that led to your charges and determine the best course of action for your case.
Robbery is always a felony charge under state law. It is also considered a strike offense under the Three Strikes Law. As a result, in addition to lengthy prison terms and high fines, you can face collateral consequences arising from a felony conviction, including the loss of some civil rights and a permanent criminal record that can impact various aspects of your life. Speaking with a skilled criminal attorney could help you minimize these potential penalties.
Under California Penal Code § 211, a robbery occurs when individuals feloniously take personal property:
Cal. Pen. Code § 212 further defines that fear may constitute one element of a robbery. More specifically, a defendant could allegedly cause fear of injury to another person, property, family members, or others who are present at the time of the robbery or property damage.
Robbery also involves an intent to commit theft or to deprive others of their property unlawfully. One common example of robbery might involve individuals who point a gun at others and demand that they turn over their purses and wallets.
Under Cal. Pen. Code § 213, first-degree robbery charges may result when individuals commit robbery within a home or inhabited building. A first-degree robbery may also occur when individuals forcibly take money or other property from a person who is leaving an ATM, or from drivers or passengers of commercial vehicles, like buses or taxis.
Prison sentences for a first-degree robbery charge can range from three to six years, with a maximum fine of $10,000. However, at least one situation can increase the potential prison sentence. If individuals voluntarily act together with two or more persons to rob an inhabited home or building, they can face up to nine years in prison. Due to the potential severity of these charges, individuals may wish to consult a robbery lawyer in Martinez for advice.
All other robberies result in second-degree robbery charges. The penalties for a second-degree robbery conviction can include up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Since robbery is always a felony charge, some aggravating factors, listed under Ca. Pen. Code § 12022.7, can increase potential prison sentences for robbery convictions. These factors can include:
If any of these elements exist in the context of an alleged robbery, individuals can face up to five additional years to their prison sentences. The amount of the increased sentence depends on the nature of the aggravating circumstances involved in the offense. A Martinez attorney experienced handling robbery cases could determine if these aggravating factors are present in a defense’s case.
Robbery charges can have a profound impact on your personal and professional life. A conviction could result in a permanent record that could make maintaining employment or finding housing difficult. A Martinez robbery lawyer could discuss your options for resolving the charges against you.
Working with legal counsel may place you in a better position to understand the charges and evidence against you and determine how to successfully fight against them. By getting the legal advice that you need, you may be more likely to minimize the effects that robbery charges can have on your life. Call today.
The Nieves Law Firm is dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense representation to working professionals who have found themselves in trouble with the law. We show up to win, and we’re not afraid to fight aggressively to accomplish our client’s goals.
We understand that being accused of a crime can be a scary and confusing experience. That’s why we take the stress off our clients by handling the full scope of their legal situation from the initial consultation to the final outcome. Our bilingual attorneys and staff are here to ensure that our clients feel heard and understood every step of the way.
As one of the largest criminal defense teams in Oakland and the Greater Bay Area, we have the resources and experience to handle even the most complex cases. Our experienced team examines various aspects of your case and, perhaps most importantly, we genuinely care about our clients and their future. We take the time to learn about their goals and priorities so that we can achieve an outcome that allows them to move past their mistakes and focus on the future they want. When you work with us, you become part of our team.
Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have experience handling a wide range of criminal cases. With a deep understanding of the legal system and a track record of successful cases, our lawyers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
When facing a criminal charge, having dedicated and experienced attorneys on your side is critical. At The Nieves Law Firm, we understand the gravity of your situation, and our criminal defense attorneys provide unwavering support and legal guidance.
From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize your well-being and legal interests. Our criminal lawyers are with you every step of the way, from arrest to hearings and beyond, to ensure that your rights are protected. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes or any other allegation, we have the knowledge and courtroom experience to fight vigorously on your behalf.
We believe in the power of collaboration and will actively involve you in the decision-making process, ensuring you are well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your defense. Our goal is not only to navigate the legal complexities but also to provide you with the peace of mind and reassurance you deserve during this challenging time.
Give us a call or contact us online so we can schedule a meeting to discuss your legal needs.
Schedule a meeting with our intake coordinator so we can determine the best plan to solve your legal problems.
We work to resolve your legal problems so you can focus on what is most important