Orlando Robbery Attorney

In Florida, an individual may commit strong arm robbery, robbery with a deadly weapon, robbery with a firearm, even attempted robbery, sudden snatching, or home invasion robbery. On this page, we will cover the first three types of robbery we mentioned and inform readers of possible defense strategies, criminal penalties, and other pertinent information. If you have been charged with robbery or are under investigation, it is vital that you consult with a skilled and capable Orlando violent crimes defense attorney at once. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, our primary objective is to protect the legal rights and freedom of our clients, and to provide outstanding legal guidance so that your desired result may be reached.

Florida Statute §812.13 defines robbery as "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."

Individuals may be charged with specific types of robbery depending on whether and what type of weapon was used, the type of force that was used (strong arm, deadly weapon, firearm, etc.) Regardless of what type of robbery you have been arrested for or charged with, your freedom and future are at risk. The most important step you can take is to consult with an experienced and aggressive Orlando robbery defense lawyer immediately, so that work can begin to protect your legal rights and future right away.

Strong arm robbery is a level 6 severity offense in the state of Florida, and classified as a second-degree felony. Defined as using force, threat, assault, or violence with the intent to take property or money unlawfully from another individual, the penalties are severe for those found guilty.

Robbery with a deadly weapon involves using threats, force, assault, or violence to intentionally take money or property from another person while possessing a deadly weapon, which is any device that is capable of producing great bodily harm or death. The fact that a weapon was in the defendant's possession is all that is needed to be charged with this offense; the deadly weapon does not have to actually be used in the commission of the crime.

Robbery with a firearm involves the possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime in which money or property is taken from an individual intentionally through the use of assault, threat, force or violence. Again, the firearm does not have to be used to face charges; its presence supports the charge.

In every criminal case, the state must prove specific elements of the offense the defendant is accused of in order for him/her to be found guilty. Orlando criminal defense attorneys will work to prevent prosecutors from proving these elements, and challenge any evidence brought forth by the state as well. In addition, a robbery defense lawyer will develop an effective, solid defense strategy by working with the client and investigating all aspects of the case. Common defenses to robbery include:

False accusation or mistaken identity. It is often difficult for victims to positively identify offenders, because many robbers wear masks, hoodies, and use other tactics to conceal their identity.

Self-defense or duress. In some cases, it may be possible to prove the alleged offender was under duress or acting in self-defense because another person or persons forced him or her to commit the robbery.

Claim of right. If the offender committed a robbery out of good faith that the property he or she took belonged to him or her, claim of right may be an effective defense. The defendant acted under the belief that he/she had claim of right over the property being taken.

The penalties an individual faces if found guilty of robbery depend on his/her criminal history, and the type of robbery the defendant is convicted of.

Robbery, or strong arm robbery, will result in punishment including a maximum of fifteen (15) years in prison, maximum of fifteen (15) years probation, and/or fines up of to $10,000.

Robbery with a deadly weapon or firearm will leave the defendant facing penalties that include a maximum of life in prison, up to life supervised probation, and/or fines of up to $15,000.

Robbery with a weapon is punishable by a maximum of thirty (30) years in prison, maximum of thirty (30) years probation, and/or fines of up to $10,000.

Robbery is an extremely serious criminal offense, whether you are accused of committing strong arm robbery, robbery with a deadly weapon, or robbery with a firearm. As you now know, a conviction will result in loss of your freedom and more. Not only is your freedom at risk, your reputation, career, and relationships are in jeopardy as well. The most positive step you can take is to secure the legal guidance and support of a dedicated Orlando robbery defense lawyer. Protect your freedom now; call (407) 872-0307 or (352) 787-2101 for a free consultation, and exceptional legal representation.