How Florida’s 10-20-Life Rule Affects Robbery Cases
If you’ve been accused of robbery, it is likely that you are under an immense amount of stress and pressure. Robbery is a serious charge, and with newer rules in the State of Florida, you may find yourself wondering how your case might be different from older cases in the past.
In this brief article, a Tampa robbery defense attorney with The Rickman Law Firm shares what you need to know about battery charges and what the 10-20-Life rule is, as well as its possible impact on your case.
What is the 10-20-Life Rule?
Under Florida Statute 812.13(1), the term “robbery” means “the taking of money or other property which may be the subject of larceny from the person or custody of another, with intent to either permanently or temporarily deprive the person or the owner of the money or other property, when in the course of the taking there is the use of force, violence, assault, or putting in fear.”
Although violence is already a component of robbery, it can be escalated into an even more severe crime if the aggressor is carrying a firearm or other deadly weapon. In Florida, this crime may be referred to as robbery, robbery with a firearm, or robbery with a deadly weapon, among other variations of robbery.
Robbery can be classified in the following ways:
- First Degree: Robbery committed with a firearm or any deadly weapon.
- Second Degree: Robbery committed without a firearm or any deadly weapon. Also called “Strong Arm” robbery.
- Sudden Snatching: Taking a person’s property while the victim is aware of the act. For example, stealing a woman’s purse from her person and running.
- Home Invasion: Entering someone’s home while occupants are present with the intention and the actual committing of a robbery.
- 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.
The “10-20-Life” law in Florida requires courts to subject to a “minimum sentence of 10 years, 20 years, or 25 years to life for certain felony convictions involving the use or attempted use of a firearm or destructive device.” First-degree robbery (armed robbery) qualifies for this strict sentencing protocol.
As an example, if you were to commit a robbery using a gun or knife, you would be subject to the 10-20-Life rule.
Contact the Top Criminal Attorneys in Tampa for help
If you have been accused of any crime, it is imperative that you contact an attorney as soon as possible. A Tampa robbery defense attorney with The Rickman Law Firm will help you understand your charges, as well as possible sentencing you might face if convicted. We have years of experience working with cases just like yours, a unique understanding of how robbery cases are prosecuted, and will be able to pursue all necessary evidence and witnesses to obtain a favorable outcome.
For a free consultation with the top criminal attorneys in Tampa, please contact The Rickman Law Firm today.
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.