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Robbery Defense Attorney
Robbery is a serious felony offense that carries significant consequences. Defined simply, robbery is a theft by threat or force. Robbery is considered a violent offense and is a strike under California’s Three Strikes law, which can result in increased sentences for repeat offenders. Sentences from two to nine years in state prison, fines, probation and more can result from a robbery conviction, before any enhancements or sentences for additional charges.
Robbery in California
In California, robbery is charged under Penal Code 211 PC. Robbery is a felony and can be either a first- or second-degree charge. First-degree robbery is punishable by up to nine years in state prison. Second-degree robbery is punishable by up to five years in state prison. Someone found guilty of robbery can also face up to $10,000 in fines.
To support a charge of robbery the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:
- The defendant took property that was not their own
- The property was taken while the owner was present
- The property was taken against that person’s will.
- The defendant used force or fear to take the property or to prevent the other person from resisting.
- The defendant intended to take the property away from its owner permanently to deprive them of the value or enjoyment of the property.
Robbery is a crime of intent, meaning that the defendant must have decided to take the property prior to committing the robbery.
If you have been or might be charged with robbery, you need a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The prosecution will be building their case against you immediately. It is important to build a strong defense from the start.
Contact Amicus Legal Group for a free consultation regarding your situation if you have been involved in or accused of robbery.
Potential Defenses to Robbery
A criminal defense attorney will investigate the details in the case to determine the best option for fighting the charges. There are potential defenses against a charge of robbery. For example, a defendant might have been taking property back that was their own or never intended to commit robbery. They might argue that there was no force or fear involved in the theft, therefore, the charge of robbery is incorrect. In this case, perhaps a lesser charge would be appropriate.
The evidence that supports the charges against you might not be solid. For example, when there is security camera footage of the incident it might be too unclear to definitively identify the defendant as the actual perpetrator.
A defense attorney will also ensure that all law enforcement agencies followed procedure throughout their handling of your case. If your Constitutional rights were violated during the investigation process or at your arrest, the case against you might rightfully be dismissed.
Contact Amicus Legal Group as Soon as Possible
If you have been charged, or think you might soon be charged with robbery, contact Amicus Legal Group as soon as possible. Your initial consultation is free.
Our team will investigate your case, hire the necessary experts and interview all key witnesses. As an experienced criminal defense firm, we can analyze your situation and obtain the best possible result. Amicus Legal Group is committed to providing each client with the personal attention they deserve. Contact us today for more information by calling (888) 588-1777.
A robbery defense attorney can help
A robbery charge is a very serious criminal matter with life-changing consequences. If you have been charged with robbery, or even just think you might be, you should not attempt to handle on your own. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer will be your best chance for beating the charges against you or lessening the potential consequences.
In a criminal case it can feel as though there is no one on your side. Hiring a criminal defense attorney puts someone with experience in the complicated world of criminal law on your team. Your attorney will ensure that your rights are protected and that you are treated with respect.
Should you take a plea bargain?
There are times when a plea bargain is the most reasonable option in a case. A defense attorney will be able to examine the details of your case and the evidence against you and advise on what is the best possible course of action.
The evidence that supports the charges against you might not be solid. For example, when there is security camera footage of the incident it might be too unclear to definitively identify the defendant as the actual perpetrator. You might have believed that you could enter the property and act as you did.
Talk to an attorney first
Because the court system is overburdened with cases, many defendants are pressured to plead guilty in exchange for a more favorable sentence. It is important to consult a criminal defense attorney before accepting any offer of a plea bargain. This may or may not be the best option for you. Is the convenience of those within the criminal justice system worth your freedom?
There are times when a plea bargain is the most reasonable option in a case. A defense attorney will be able to examine the details of your case and the evidence against you and advise on what is the best possible course of action.
Client Testimonials
Occasionally you meet another attorney who is so impressive both personally and professionally that you want to be affiliated with them in any way you can both personally and professionally. That is how I feel about John-Paul. I not only consider him one of the finest attorneys I know, but I now proudly call him my friend. He is among the very best.
David Booth
John-Paul is an extremely effective criminal defense attorney. The one thing that makes him stand out from other defense attorneys is that he talks to his clients to learn the circumstances surrounding their incident and then he makes a forceful and articulate argument in defense of his clients. I recommend my clients to John-Paul when they are in need of a criminal defense attorney because I know he will stand up for them.
Stephen Rinka
Mr. Serrao worked on my DUI charge earlier this year and all I can say is WOW! Not only did he keep me updated with the case but his knowledge of the process helped calm my nerves, which was very important to me. He showed care for me as a client and I can’t thank him enough. I would recommend him to anyone in need of a quality criminal defense attorney.
Derrick J.
John-Paul took my civil case when no one else would because other lawyers didn’t have confidence in my daughter who has special needs to testify, if needed. John-Paul won her case against the school district without a jury because he cared about my child, believed she was honest and deserved justice. He still doesn’t mind taking my calls whenever I have a question regarding her case.
Dionne L.
Attorney John Paul-Serrao helped us to win our case against the insurance company after we were involved in a traffic accident where our car was rear ended, we tried to handle it ourselves with the insurance company and they did not want to cooperate with us, so we hired Mr. Serrao and he was able to get us a settlement above with the insurance company was willing to pay. I would highly recommend him.
Lupe G.
John-Paul is a superb attorney. He was my mentor when I was in law school, and now as an attorney I still go to him for advice on complex cases. When my brother required representation I referred him to John-Paul. That is how highly I think of JP as an attorney. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needs representation.
Kit Westbrook
John-Paul is well known in our community as a smart and effective criminal defense lawyer who is sensitive to his clients’ situations and responsive to their needs. I refer my clients to him with confidence when they need help with the criminal justice system.
Lawrence Brock
I had the pleasure of working a very large scale drug case with Mr. Serrao, representing co-defendants. Mr. Serrao was a pleasure to work with. Highly skilled and very aggressive in his advocacy on his client’s behalf. I highly recommend Mr. Serrao for anyone looking for a criminal defense attorney.
Babak Farahan
