Robbery refers to several forms of theft from a person who is present during the offense. Courts classify robbery offenses as violent crimes, which means they receive the utmost seriousness under Florida law. If you are facing robbery charges, you need the help of a skilled Fort Pierce robbery lawyer. Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., has practiced criminal defense law exclusively for more than 30 years, and the Florida Bar’s Board of Legal Specialization and Education has certified him as a criminal trial attorney. He could use his extensive experience and skill to work toward the most favorable outcome possible for you.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated theft attorney from the firm today.
Robbery is a form of theft, but an alleged theft must meet specific criteria to be a robbery. Florida Statute § 812.13 establishes four elements to a robbery charge, including:
If a person surrenders property due to fear of violence, the act still qualifies as robbery, even without the use of physical force.
The elements of a charge are important because the prosecutor must prove each one to secure a conviction. Our Fort Pierce attorney could work to identify and challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence regarding one or more robbery elements.
The law identifies multiple situations that could constitute robbery. Statutes describe five distinct robbery offenses:
Most of these robbery crimes are first-degree felonies, which carry a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Robbery by sudden snatching is a third-degree felony that could lead to up to five years in prison upon conviction.
A Fort Pierce defense lawyer from our firm could represent you on a robbery charge from the time of your arrest. He could conduct an independent investigation of the incident, ensure law enforcement respected your rights, negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a reduction or dismissal of the charge, and present your case before a jury when necessary.
Some defenses apply to any criminal matter. Our Fort Pierce defense attorney could seek to have a robbery charge dismissed if the police made an illegal stop, conducted a search or seizure without a warrant, failed to inform you of your rights, or denied you access to counsel. He could also pursue dismissal if the prosecutor’s evidence is insufficient to prove an element of the charge.
A defense to robbery exists if you had a good-faith belief that you were entitled to the property you took or attempted to take. Other possible defenses include mistaken identity, an untruthful witness, and the absence of force or threat of force. The defense most likely to succeed in a particular case depends on the available evidence.
Settling a charge through a plea deal is sometimes advantageous. However, when you work with a board-certified criminal trial lawyer, you can trust that we are prepared to take a case to trial before a jury when necessary.
Robbery is a serious criminal charge with severe potential penalties. Protecting your future requires the guidance of an experienced Fort Pierce robbery lawyer who understands how to challenge the prosecution’s case and fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact the office of Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., today to put a dedicated and skilled criminal defense team on your side. We are ready to discuss your case, explain your options, and begin building your defense. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
