When a Lake County Sherriff’s deputy arrests you for robbery, you are hit with a felony that could send you to prison if you cannot prove your innocence. You will need an experienced theft attorney to do everything in their power to help you in this case.
Our attorneys fight for you by mediating with the prosecutor for a lesser charge, dismissal, probation, or a diversion program if one is available. We prepare for trial by matching the facts and evidence with a credible defense. Humans make mistakes, but second chances should be available. If you have dreams and goals for your future, put your faith in a Lake County robbery lawyer who is considering your future, too.
Robbery falls under “theft” in Florida law, and violence is a factor. Under Florida Statutes § 812.13, the elements the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt are that the accused took someone else’s money or property with the intent to keep it, and used force, fear, or violence to do so. This escalates the charge from burglary, when the property taken can be from an empty establishment and no violence need occur.
Violence for a robbery charge can occur prior to, during, or in an escape attempt after taking the property or money from someone. A weapon need not be involved, but charges escalate when a gun or other weapon is present.
Florida has a reputation for being tough on crime. In projecting that image, legislators expanded robbery by adding subsets to the crime that are also felonies. They include carjacking, which is robbery of a vehicle and is a first-degree felony; robbery by sudden snatching, such as a wallet or handbag, a third-degree felony raised to a second-degree felony if a weapon is involved; and home invasion, a first-degree felony if the intruder uses violence inside the home they intended to rob. If you are arrested for robbery in Lake County, contact our attorneys immediately so we can begin strategizing your defense and fighting to get you the most positive results.
The weapons involved in a robbery dictate what degree of felony might be charged. For example, waving a gun, brandishing a knife, or displaying another deadly weapon can mean life in prison for this first-degree felony. If the state does not consider a weapon deadly, such as a plastic or blunt-bladed table knife, the charge can still be a first-degree felony, but the punishment is up to 30 years in prison, up to 30 years on probation, and up to a $10,000 fine. Robbers with no weapons face up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, and up to a $10,000 fine.
The system continues to punish those convicted who serve their sentences and try to rebuild their lives. With a felony on your record, you will have trouble getting a good job, a loan, including student loans, housing, and you will lose your right to own a firearm and vote in Florida, although voting rights could be restored.
Our criminal defense attorneys consider every detail of your case to identify the best defenses and employ them wisely. Some defenses could include:
Our Lake County robbery attorneys build defenses that aim to exonerate clients or reduce their punishment.
If you are arrested for snatching a handbag at the Lake County Farmers’ & Flea Market or participating in a home invasion, the charge will be robbery, and the way forward is to present a defense that mitigates elements the prosecutor must prove. Whether and why you committed the crime does not negate your right to vigorous representation.
Our defense attorneys ensure your right to a fair trial is honored. We understand the stress you are under transcends what you are going through now, creeping into an uncertain future. A robbery charge does not necessarily ruin your future. Our Lake County robbery lawyers are skilled, compassionate advocates who are ready to be your defense team.