Prince George’s County Robbery Lawyer

Robbery is an elevated theft charge because it includes violence or the threat of violence. Violent crimes are always punished more severely since the prosecution views them as public safety issues. A person facing robbery charges should consult an experienced robbery lawyer.

The penalties associated with robbery offenses include a minimum of more than a decade in prison if an individual is convicted. If you or a loved one has been charged with robbery, it is necessary to seek the services of an experienced Prince George’s County robbery lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected, and to increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Legal Definition of Robbery

Robbery is defined as taking and carrying away another person’s personal property, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property, through the use of violence or by putting the other person in fear. Since putting another person in fear is subjective, the alleged victim’s reasonable belief at the time of the robbery will determine whether the person was in fear.

Accordingly, threatening another person’s physical safety or the physical safety of their loved ones, physical intimidation, or giving the impression of a weapon could all constitute acts that were designed to put the other person in fear.

Penalties for a Conviction

Robbery, which includes strong-arm robbery, is punishable with up to 15 years in prison. The penalty for robbery is more severe when a weapon was used or there was a threat to use a weapon. When the accused is alleged to have used a weapon during a robbery, the penalty includes up to 20 years’ incarceration.

Carjacking, which is taking another person’s motor vehicle by force, threat, or intimidation, is another type of robbery. It is punishable with up to 30 years imprisonment. Unlike most jurisdictions, in Maryland, attempted robbery is punishable with the same penalties that would be applicable if an individual was convicted of the completed offense.

Process of an Arrest

Robbery arrests typically occur in two ways – the police arrive during or shortly after the robbery and make an arrest at the scene of the robbery or an arrest occurs following an investigation. It is most common for a robbery arrest to occur after the police complete an investigation and arrest warrants are issued by the judge.

When an arrest occurs after a robbery, the majority of the police investigation is completed and the police have decided, based on the evidence, who should be arrested and charged. The arrest process commonly includes the police officers identifying themselves when attempting to serve the arrest warrant, notifying the accused of the pending charges, and notifying the accused of their rights.

Arrests can also happen at the scene of the robbery. At the time of the arrest, officers commonly search the accused for weapons, which could elevate the charge. After the search, the accused is notified of their rights and may be questioned. It is unlikely that the accused will be questioned extensively since the police are witnesses to the robbery and/or property taken during the robbery may be in the accused’s possession.

Consulting a Lawyer

It is in the best interest of the accused not to respond to any questions beyond identifying themselves and immediately request an attorney. If you or a loved find yourself facing robbery charges, do not hesitate to contact a Prince George’s County robbery lawyer who can examine all the aspects of your case, advise you of all your legal options and ensure that your rights are protected.