Criminal Defense Lawyers

Robbery Charges in Florida: Armed Robbery, Carjacking Penalties and Hiring a Lawyer

Robbery Charges in Florida: What You Need to Know

Getting charged with robbery in Florida is scary business. It’s a serious crime that can land you in prison for years. But try not to freak out! With a good lawyer on your side, you’ve got a fighting chance. This article will break down the robbery laws in Florida and what penalties you may face. We’ll also give tips on hiring the right lawyer to defend your case.

What is Robbery in Florida?

Robbery is taking money or property from someone by force or threat of force. For example, holding someone up at gunpoint to steal their wallet is robbery. Snatching a purse off someone’s shoulder and running away is also robbery.The key things that make it robbery are:

• Taking money or property that belongs to someone else
• Using force, violence, assault, or putting someone in fear
• Intending to permanently or temporarily take the money/property

Robbery is more serious than regular theft because it involves violence or threats. Florida has tough penalties for robbery to deter this dangerous crime.

Types of Robbery Charges

There are a few different types of robbery charges in Florida law:

Strong Arm Robbery

This is forcibly stealing money or property without a weapon. For example, punching someone and taking their phone. Or pushing someone down and grabbing their purse.Strong arm robbery is a second-degree felony in Florida.

Robbery with a Deadly Weapon

This is stealing money or property while carrying a deadly weapon – even if you don’t actually use the weapon. Just having a deadly weapon makes it more serious.Examples are robbing someone while carrying a gun, knife, bat, or other item that could easily hurt or kill someone.Robbery with a deadly weapon is a first-degree felony.

Home Invasion Robbery

This is illegally entering a home (or occupied structure or vehicle) with the intent to commit a robbery inside.Home invasion robbery is a first-degree felony.

Carjacking

Carjacking is stealing a car by force or threat, with or without a weapon. This is a first-degree felony.

Robbery by Sudden Snatching

This is quickly grabbing someone’s property without much force. Like snatching a purse or phone and running away before the person can react.Robbery by sudden snatching is a third-degree felony.

Penalties for Robbery in Florida

The penalties for robbery depend on what type of robbery it is and whether you have past felony convictions. Possible sentences include:

• Strong Arm Robbery – Up to 15 years in prison
• Robbery with Deadly Weapon – Up to life in prison
• Home Invasion Robbery – Up to life in prison
• Carjacking – Up to life in prison
• Robbery by Sudden Snatching – Up to 5 years in prison

In addition to jail time, you may face fines up to $10,000 or more and be required to pay restitution to the victim.Florida’s 10-20-Life law also imposes mandatory minimum sentences if a firearm is involved in certain violent felonies including robbery. This means:

• 10 years if you possess a firearm
• 20 years if you fire the firearm
• 25 years to life if someone is injured or killed

So having a gun during a robbery really raises the stakes in Florida.

Defenses Against Robbery Charges

There are legal defenses that a skilled criminal defense lawyer may use to fight your robbery charges, such as:

• Mistaken identity – Saying you’re not the person who committed the robbery
• Duress – Claiming you were forced to commit the crime against your will
• Intoxication – Arguing you were too impaired to form criminal intent
• Self-defense – Stating you were protecting yourself from harm

A good attorney will thoroughly investigate your case to determine if any solid defenses can be used. They may also negotiate with prosecutors to get charges reduced or dismissed.

Finding the Right Lawyer for Your Case

If you’re facing robbery charges in Florida, having an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial. Here are some tips on hiring the best lawyer:

• Choose a lawyer who specializes in robbery and theft crimes. Check their track record defending these cases.
• Make sure they have deep knowledge of Florida’s robbery laws and penalties.
• Find someone who is aggressive in fighting for their clients yet cool under pressure. Robbery cases can get intense!
• Select a lawyer you feel comfortable with and who makes time to address all your concerns. Trust is important.
• Discuss legal fees upfront and get fee agreements in writing. Avoid surprises down the road.
• If you can’t afford a private lawyer, ask about getting a public defender. Don’t go it alone!

Having the right legal defense can make all the difference for your freedom and future. Don’t wait to get help from an experienced Florida robbery defense attorney. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of beating these serious charges.

Frequently Asked Questions about Robbery in Florida

What’s the difference between robbery and theft/larceny?

The main difference is that robbery involves force or threat of force, while theft/larceny does not. Taking someone’s property without their permission is theft. Taking it by violence or threats makes it a robbery.

What if I didn’t actually use a weapon during the robbery?

Simply possessing or carrying a weapon during a robbery makes it an armed robbery under Florida law. You don’t actually have to display or use the weapon to face an armed robbery charge.

What if I was falsely accused of robbery?

Your attorney will investigate to determine if it’s a case of mistaken identity or false accusations. Things like alibis, lack of evidence, and your character could be used to fight wrongful charges.

Can I negotiate a plea deal to reduce the charges?

Yes, your lawyer may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to get robbery charges reduced or other beneficial plea deals. This depends on the facts of your case and your criminal history.

How long do I have to wait for trial if I can’t make bail?

Florida’s speedy trial rule requires the prosecution to bring you to trial within 175 days if you are held in custody awaiting trial. But some exceptions can delay the trial, so discuss this with your attorney.

Can I get my robbery charges expunged later?

Getting convictions expunged depends on the type of robbery. Some charges like robbery with a deadly weapon are not eligible. An attorney can advise you on expungement eligibility.

What happens if I violate probation after a robbery conviction?

Violating probation often leads to serving the original jail/prison sentence you received for the robbery. Additional penalties are also possible for the probation violation.

Conclusion

Robbery is a very serious felony in Florida. Being accused of robbery can turn your life upside down fast. But with an experienced criminal defense lawyer guiding you, it’s possible to challenge the charges and achieve the best resolution.If you or a loved one faces robbery accusations in Florida, don’t delay in finding a top-notch defense attorney. Time is of the essence. The attorney can evaluate your case, advise you of the options, and start building a strong defense right away. With skilled legal help, you can overcome these allegations and move forward with your life.