California Robbery Defense Attorneys

WHAT IS ROBBERY?

The California Penal Code Section 211 defines robbery at "the felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from his person or immediate presence and against his will, accomplished by means of force or fear." The key difference between a burglary or a robbery - two terms which are often confused - is that in a burglary, the victim is not present as opposed to a robbery where the victim must be present.

Robbery is considered a felony in almost all states and a "violent crime" because it involves intimidation, force or causing a victim to fear for his or her life or physical well-being. Armed robbery involves the use of a weapon such as robbery at gun-point or knife-point. The prosecutor will usually add "weapon enhancements" or additional charges in armed robbery cases that will likely make the sentencing and penalties a lot more severe.

The sentencing and penalties for robbery will depend on whether someone is convicted of first-degree or second-degree robbery. Robbery in the first degree is when it occurs:

• In a vehicle (such as bus, taxi, train, home)
• While someone is using an automated teller machine (ATM) or near such an ATM machine

All other types of robbery other than these two are said to be "second-degree robbery."

Anyone convicted of robbery in the first degree could face up to nine years in state prison and up to five years if convicted of second-degree robbery. A robbery conviction is extremely serious. If convicted of multiple counts, a life sentence is possible. If you are not a United States citizen, your immigration status or application for citizenship could be in jeopardy. What's worse, you could be locked up in prison for the rest of your life, if you are a "third-striker" under the California Three Strikes Law.

Don't let this happen to you. If you or a loved one has been charged with robbery, call Wallin and Klarich immediately to discuss your case and your options with one of our Orange County robbery defense lawyers. Our main goal is to keep you out of jail. We will do our best to reduce your charges, lower your fines and get you all the help you need.

At Wallin & Klarich, we approach every case with the belief that the person we're defending could easily be one of our own family members. We've seen firsthand how stressful legal matters can be for our clients and their loved ones. We are committed to being available to our clients at all times -- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. If you or someone you love is facing theft charges in Southern California, you should call Wallin & Klarich today for a free evaluation of your case. Call 1-888-228-6315 or fill out our online consultation form to get in contact with a legal professional today. We will be there when you call.