Essential Facts About a Robbery / Theft Charge
Washington State has a policy commonly referred to as “three strikes” and you are out. A person will receive an automatic life sentence if they are convicted of three separate serious felonies. Not all felony charges qualify as a “strike offense” but a Robbery conviction is a “strike.” A guilty finding can result in a lengthy prison term and negatively impact future employment opportunities upon release.
What is Robbery?
Robbery is defined as “the unlawful” taking of property from another person by a threat or through the use of force. A Robbery is classified as first or second degree depending on the alleged facts. A second degree charge is a Class B felony and punishable up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. A first degree charge is a Class A felony and punishable up to 20 years in prison and a $50,000 fine.
A second degree robbery can be elevated to the more serious charge of first degree robbery if property was unlawfully taken AND the existence of one of the following:
- Armed with a deadly weapon
- Displayed a firearm or a deadly weapon
- Inflicted bodily injury
- Robbed a financial institution
Defenses to a Robbery Charge?
There are many defenses to a Robbery charge that can be asserted in Court. Below is a list of a few defenses that may exist in a case.
- Dispute over Legal Ownership of Property
- Rightful ownership of the Propety
- Use of Force was Lawful
- The Alleged Victim is Not Telling the Truth
- No Use of Force Against Alleged Victim
- It was a Theft, Not a Robbery
- Intent was Not to Deprive the Person of the Property
It’s critical to meet with an attorney to learn your options and to develop a strategy. Not all robbery charges are alike and the outcome can have life altering consequences. We have advocated successful results following a Robbery charge to include:
- Dismissed
- Amended to Misdemeanor Offense
- Acceptance into a Diversion Program (TAP)
- Accepted into Drug Court
You need a dedicated attorney focused on the nuances of your case; an advocate who can highlight pertinent facts that make the difference between a prison sentence and a just outcome.
We can Fight Your Robbery Charge
We are a reputable Washington law firm serving Lynnwood and the greater Seattle area and provide aggressive defense for those trapped in the criminal justice system. We have earned a Superb rating from Avvo and have been awarded with their Clients’ Choice Award for our competent and successful criminal defense litigation. The Law Office of Michael P. Sheehy, PLLC can be trusted to find a successful solution regardless of the facts of your case.
Call us today to request your free consultation if you have been charged with Robbery or Theft!