Cleveland Robbery Attorney
Robbery is a distinct form of theft that involves the use of force, a deadly weapon, or threats of physical violence. Being found guilty of robbery can lead to substantial penalties that could include jail or prison time. If you were charged with robbery, you should work with a Cleveland robbery lawyer to reduce the penalties that you are facing.
Having legal representation can be crucial to your defense and reassurance during a difficult period in your life. An experienced criminal law attorney understands the state’s laws, how to prepare for trial, and how to reduce the penalties you are facing. If prosecutors lack sufficient evidence to move forward with your case, your attorney can urge the courts to drop the charges altogether.
Why Choose Fortress Law Group, LLC
At Fortress Law Group, LLC, we understand how serious a robbery charge can be. Criminal courts often push for higher penalties for robbery than other forms of theft. Our law firm can work to protect your rights while your case moves forward. We always seek the optimal outcome to your case, whether that’s a reduced charge or a favorable plea bargain that lets you move forward with your life.
We’ll be by your side every step of the way. These situations can take a toll on your professional and personal life. Our law firm has represented many clients who have faced similar charges, so we know how to find the right strategy to defend your case.
Penalties for Robbery
Robbery occurs when a person engages in specific dangerous actions during a theft or while fleeing after a theft attempt. These include having a deadly weapon in their possession or control, causing or threatening to cause physical harm to another person, or using or threatening the use of force.
If the offender is armed or causes harm, the crime is classified as a second-degree felony, which carries more severe penalties. If the offender threatens to use force but doesn’t cause harm, it is treated as a third-degree felony, which comes with lesser, though still serious, consequences.
A second-degree felony in Cleveland, Ohio, has a minimum prison sentence of two to eight years. The maximum term is determined by law. Third-degree felonies can result in prison sentences of nine months to 60 months. Aggravating factors that can lead to harsher penalties include using a firearm, the level of harm inflicted, the amount of money stolen, prior criminal history, and other factors.
As with other serious crimes, someone convicted of robbery may be required to pay or comply with these orders:
- Fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Restitution to the victim
- House arrest
- Mandatory counseling or rehabilitation programs
Any defendant’s most favorable chance for reducing the penalties will come from their criminal defense attorney, who can gather evidence supporting their client’s innocence.
Criminal Defense Strategies for Robbery
Prosecutors may not have a strong case without strong evidence proving that the defendant committed the alleged crime. Your attorney can look for inconsistencies in the witness’ statements to question whether you committed the crime. Mistaken identity can be an effective defense strategy in robbery cases.
The circumstances of the robbery can also be brought into question. If prosecutors cannot prove that a weapon was used or that the victim was harmed, the defendant could face a lesser charge that comes with lower penalties.
If the victim knows the alleged offender, that could also complicate the prosecution’s case and bolster your case. The defendant may have thought the property in question was theirs or that they had a lawful claim to the stolen property. Disagreements and arguments can often look like criminal acts to outsiders who do not know the specifics of the situation that lead to criminal charges.
FAQs
A: The punishment for robbery can vary greatly. First-time offenders could still face serious penalties if they are charged with a felony. A conviction could result in a prison sentence ranging from a few months to multiple years. Your lawyer can work to get the charges reduced or argue that you deserve leniency. Probation is often preferable to any time in jail.
A: The time you can get for robbery in Ohio depends on your criminal record, the circumstances surrounding the offense, and the strength of your criminal defense strategy. Some defendants may receive a light punishment following a plea bargain agreement, while defendants who do not have legal representation could face multiple years in prison.
A: In Ohio, robbery involves attempting or committing a theft while doing one of the following: having a deadly weapon, causing or threatening physical harm, or using force. These actions, whether during the theft or while fleeing, form the main elements of robbery under Ohio law. Robbery can be classified as a second-degree or third-degree felony depending on which elements were involved in the crime.
A: Aggravated robbery in Ohio occurs when, during a theft, the offender uses or brandishes a deadly weapon, inflicts or attempts to inflict serious physical harm, or threatens harm with a dangerous weapon. Prosecutors often seek prison time for these types of aggravating factors. Aggravated robbery often leads to harsher penalties, including longer prison terms.
Schedule Your Cleveland Robbery Lawyer
Any criminal charge for robbery carries the potential of prison time and other serious penalties. Don’t risk your freedom by going it alone. With the help of our esteemed lawyer, the courts may reduce the charges you are facing or at least the penalties. At Fortress Law Group, LLC, our attorney has a strong reputation for helping clients navigate complex criminal charges with favorable outcomes.
We always put the interests of our clients first and never pressure clients to accept an unfavorable plea bargain. Once we review your case, our lawyer will develop a defense strategy that works to paint you in a more favorable light. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.