Robbery Defense in Gilbert, AZ

What Does it Mean to Commit a Robbery?

From the outset, prosecutors will need to prove that a taking or attempted taking of property occurred to secure a robbery conviction. However, this is not the only thing that a prosecutor must prove.

Arizona Revised Statute § 13-1902 provides the core definition of a robbery. It states that a robbery is a theft that is accomplished through the use or threat of force. In other words, the alleged assailant may threaten a supposed victim with physical harm with the intent of taking their property. This basic definition is a class 4 felony.

Even so, there may be aggravating factors that make an allegation of robbery even more serious. AZ Rev. Stat. § 13-1903 describes aggravated robbery as being a robbery committed with the aid of one or more accomplices. This makes the allegation a class 3 felony. In addition, AZ Rev. Stat. § 13-1904 provides enhanced penalties if a person commits a robbery while using a deadly weapon. Under this law, the charge is a class 2 felony. A Gilbert attorney could provide more information about the exact robbery charges that a person is facing and the potential penalties for a conviction.

Providing Potent Defenses Against Allegations of Robbery

Every robbery charge is a serious matter that requires a person’s complete attention. From the moment that an arrest occurs, it is vital to understand one’s rights as well as work to create reasonable doubt in the prosecution’s case.

One way to accomplish this is to argue that a defendant was not the alleged assailant. The recollections of alleged victims can be hazy, and the results of line-ups are challengeable in court. A Gilbert lawyer could work to protect defendants while in police custody and to evaluate the legality of police work that led to a robbery arrest or acquisition of evidence.

An attorney could also help during all pretrial court sessions. This includes arguing for reasonable bail, working to exclude questionable evidence, and making other motions to protect the rights of defendants.

Finally, if the case goes to trial, a savvy attorney could question witnesses on the stand and work to present evidence that could help to create reasonable doubt in the minds of jurors. Each of these strategies could help to reduce the potential penalty for a conviction or even result in a total acquittal.

Reach Out to a Gilbert Robbery Attorney Today

To prove robbery in a criminal court, prosecutors must demonstrate that you took property from another person by the use or threat of force. Fighting back against these charges can involve disputing whether you were the alleged assailant, arguing that the taking never occurred, or fighting back against the idea that you used a weapon in the event.

Whether your goal is to reach a fair plea deal that limits a potential punishment, or you are looking to have a full trial to dispute the charges, a Gilbert robbery lawyer may be able to help. Our firm could work with you to explain the relevant laws, protect your legal rights, and fight back against these life-changing allegations. Call now to get started.