Have you been accused of stealing someone’s property? An allegation of robbery shouldn’t be taken lightly because it could result in criminal charges that will affect your quality of life down the road. To avoid severe consequences, it’s in your best interest to set up an appointment with a reputable robbery attorney in Tampa.
Whether you’re under investigation or if you’ve already been arrested, contacting a robbery defense attorney in Tampa is essential. A robbery conviction brings with it harsh penalties but with legal counsel from the Rickman Law Firm, you may be able to avoid the maximum penalties or a conviction once the facts of your case are assessed and a viable defense strategy is created on your behalf.
The details of what constitutes a robbery under Florida law is outlined in Florida Statutes 812.13. In a nutshell, robbery is when an individual or group of people take property (or money) from another person through fear, force, or violence with the intent to either temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of their own property.
Robbery charges are felonies that fall under the following classifications:
First Degree: Robbery committed with a firearm or any deadly weapon.
Second Degree: Robbery committed without a firearm or any deadly weapon.
Sudden Snatching: Taking a person’s property while the victim is aware of the act.
Home-Invasion: Entering someone’s home while occupants are present with the intention and the actual committing of a robbery with or without a firearm or deadly weapon.
Carjacking: Taking a vehicle from someone by force, fear, violence, or assault. Whether or not a firearm or deadly weapon is used, this could lead to a first-degree felony conviction.
If convicted, robbery carries mandatory minimum sentences which include 10 years of jail time if a firearm or deadly weapon were involved. If the firearm or deadly weapon is discharged or set off during the robbery, 20 years of jail time is required. If someone is injured or killed during the robbery, a 25-year sentence is required. Beyond mandatory jail times, the use of a weapon could warrant up to life imprisonment. If you’re only charged with attempted robbery, you could still face years in jail.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.