Robbery

As defined by California Penal Code § 211, robbery involves the taking of another’s property from their person or immediate presence, against their will, and by means of force or fear. As robbery is considered both a violent crime and a theft crime, prosecutors place these cases at the top of their agendas and work aggressively to prosecute and convict defendants. If you or your loved one currently stands accused of any robbery charge, place your trust in Riverside robbery lawyers from the Law Offices of Grech, Packer & Hanks to protect your rights and fight for your future.

The nature of the robbery allegation you or your loved one may face will depend on a number of circumstances. Generally, robbery is a crime that can be prosecuted in the first or second degree. There are also related charges that may arise, as well as aggravating circumstances that can enhance the severity of penalties.

• First-Degree Robbery: These charges apply to situations in which robbery is committed against a person performing the duties of their job as an operator of a motor vehicle, against a person using an automated teller machine (ATM) or against others in an inhabited dwelling or building. First-degree burglary is punishable by prison sentences of three, six, or nine years.
• Second-Degree Robbery: Second-Degree robbery applies to all situations not stated as a first-degree offense, meaning that they took place in areas other than an inhabited dwelling, and against people other than motor vehicle operators, passengers, or ATM users. Second-degree burglary is punishable by imprisonment in a state prison for two, three, or five years.
• Carjacking: Carjacking is a related offense that involves the theft of a motor vehicle while it is in the possession of another. A felony offense, carjacking is punishable by imprisonment for three, five, or nine years.

In addition to these charges and sentencing guidelines, defendants may face enhanced penalties when certain aggravating circumstances are involved. These may include prior criminal convictions, the use of a dangerous weapon or firearm, or causing harm to another person. Although the penalties for any robbery offense are severe, the presence of these factors can make punishments devastating.