If you are accused of robbery, there is a chance that you could be facing jail time or steep consequences. If you believe that you were wrongly accused of this offense or you would like to increase your chances of getting a reduced sentence, you need an experienced theft attorney that understands this particular charge.
Largey Law Firm has years of experience dealing with these types of cases. To learn if you could benefit from a seasoned Mount Dora robbery lawyer, do not hesitate to reach out to us today.
What is the Difference Between Theft and Robbery?
Many people use the terms “theft” and “robbery” interchangeably. However, these are two completely different crimes that can come with vastly different consequences.
Theft refers to when a person takes money or another piece of property without the owner’s permission. Meanwhile, state law defines robbery as a more serious act of theft. According to Florida Statutes 812.13, robbery is when a person takes another person’s property or attempts to take their property while using violence, force, or intimidation. If someone needs more clarification about the differences between theft and robbery, a knowledgeable attorney in Mount Dora could offer guidance during a consultation.
What are the Penalties for Robbery in Mount Dora?
The severity of the penalties that an individual receives when charged with robbery can vary dramatically. Some of the contributing factors that can affect a sentence include:
Due to the type of violence that is used during a robbery, this crime is a felony. There are three different degrees of felonies: first degree, second degree, and third degree. First-degree felonies have the harshest punishment and third-degree felonies usually have the lightest consequences. Regardless of the intensity of a robbery conviction, a Mount Dora defendant can face time and prison and have to pay several thousands of dollars in fines. Our lawyers are here to help minimize the consequences of a conviction.
Types of Robberies
It is important to understand that not all robberies are classified the same. There are several different types of robberies that come with their own set of consequences. Here is a look at the various types of robberies and the penalties that one can face if convicted.
Robbery by Sudden Snatching
Sudden snatching is considered a type of robbery because the victim is aware of the theft. Usually, there is minimal violence or intimidation associated with this crime. Assuming that there are no serious injuries associated with a sudden snatching offense, it will usually be classified as a third-degree felony. If convicted of robbery by sudden snatching, an individual could face a maximum of five years in prison and up to a $5,000 fine.
Strong-Arm Robbery
This type of robbery involves a perpetrator engaging in extreme violence or intimidation tactics during the robbery. During a strong-arm robbery, the suspect might use force to steal a person’s money or property. The victim is also usually left with some type of injury, although injuries are not a requirement for a robbery to be considered a strong arm.
This offense is considered a second-degree felony and can result in the perpetrator spending up to 15 years in prison and paying up to $10,000 in fines if convicted.
Armed Robbery
This type of crime occurs when the offender used or carried a weapon while the robbery was taking place. In most cases, an armed robbery involves the use of a gun by the perpetrator. However, in Florida, an armed robbery is defined as the use of any “deadly weapon.”
Due to the extreme seriousness of the crime, state laws consider armed robbery a first-degree felony. The maximum penalty for an armed robbery with a deadly weapon is life imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.
Other common forms of robbery include carjacking and home invasion. A seasoned Mount Dora lawyer could help someone conclude the type of robbery charge they face and understand the best strategy for moving forward.
Talk to a Trusted Mount Dora Robbery Attorney Today
Robbery is a serious crime in Florida. If you have been charged with this crime, you need an experienced and trusted lawyer on your side. You should not have to handle negotiations, your case process, and any unexpected complications alone. You deserve a dedicated legal representative on your side to protect your rights. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation and see how a Mount Dora robbery lawyer could help you.