Maryland Robbery Lawyer

Robbery is a type of theft charge that involves force or the threat of force while taking someone else’s property or services that does not belong to them. Due to the inclusion of force, robbery is a more serious charge than a regular theft charge. Therefore, it is essential that a defendant obtains the services of a dedicated Maryland robbery lawyer. An experienced attorney could advocate on the defendant’s behalf throughout their case to help them avoid a conviction or to negotiate a lesser charge.

Understanding Robbery Law

Robbery is the act of taking property from another person through force or threat of force. Maryland classifies robbery into unarmed robbery, armed robbery, and aggravated robbery. Armed robbery involves using a weapon during the crime, while aggravated robbery includes causing serious physical injury or targeting vulnerable individuals.

Robbery is distinct from theft and burglary. Theft involves taking property without direct confrontation, and burglary involves unlawful entry into a structure to commit a crime. These distinctions impact the severity of charges and penalties.

Always consult with a qualified Maryland robbery lawyer to navigate these complex legal definitions and ensure proper legal representation.

Proving Robbery Charges

In certain cases, there may be little evidence that can prove the element of force in a robbery. In a robbery case, the government must prove that the individual took someone else’s property without permission and with the intent to deprive the owner of it permanently while using force to accomplish this. In theory, if someone is guilty of a robbery, then they are also guilty of theft because the elements of the charges overlap. The burden of proof is on the prosecutor and sometimes they may have a difficult time proving that the defendant used force or the threat of force.

Negotiating Robbery to a Theft Charge

There are circumstances in which a Maryland robbery lawyer may be able to negotiate a robbery charge down to a theft offense. Depending on the facts of the case, a qualified attorney may be able to negotiate a robbery charge down to a theft charge in a few different ways. Lawyers always look at the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence. In plea negotiations, both sides must compromise, so if the state is willing to agree to a theft plea, this may be in the best interest of the defendant because they could avoid the risk of the much more serious robbery conviction in a trial. An experienced attorney will always keep the defendant’s best interest in mind throughout the case.

Information a Defendant Should Provide an Attorney

There a few different things that would be very helpful for a Maryland robbery lawyer when a person contacts them about robbery charges. A defendant should be able to provide a case number and any documentation that has been provided, such as court paperwork. Also, they may want to get the names and contact information of witnesses, photographs, or any videos that may be available. In general, the defendant should share any information with the attorney about what happened or what did not happen before the arrest.

How a Maryland Robbery Attorney Could Help

An individual charged with a robbery offense in Maryland is facing potentially very serious consequences. Robbery is considered a felony and the penalties can be up to 15 years in prison in addition to fines, probation, and restitution payments. A seasoned Maryland robbery lawyer will be familiar with the laws, court system, judges, and the prosecutors. A defendant is taking a huge risk if they do not proceed with an attorney. If you are facing robbery charges, contact a dedicated and knowledgeable lawyer today.