If law enforcement has arrested you for robbery in Southern California, it’s common to feel overwhelmed and anxious about your immediate future. Suddenly, you face several questions and uncertainties, and you may wonder what your options are for fighting these charges. Your top priority is to contact a skilled Los Angeles County criminal defense lawyer to discuss your situation. In the meantime, here’s a quick breakdown of the different types of robbery charges you may face to help prepare you for what lies ahead.
California’s Definition of Robbery
According to California Penal Code sec. 211, “Robbery is 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.” To convict someone of robbery, prosecutors must show that the defendant knowingly took someone else’s property against that person’s will and that the defendant used threats, coercive tactics, or other means of intimidation to inspire fear in the victim.
First-Degree vs. Second-Degree Robbery
In California, you can face two types of robbery charges: first-degree or second-degree robbery. First-degree robbery occurs when the victim is a transit driver or passenger (i.e., bus, taxi, cable car, trolley) or if the victim was robbed in their place of residence (home, trailer, houseboat, etc.). Additionally, robbing someone while they are using (or just finished using) an ATM constitutes first-degree robbery. All other forms of robbery are considered second-degree robbery offenses.
Penalties for Robbery in Los Angeles County
If convicted of second-degree robbery, you could face imprisonment in state prison for two, three, or five years. First-degree robbery is punishable by imprisonment for three, four, or six years. However, if you committed a first-degree robbery in concert with two or more people, the prison sentence increases to three, six, or nine years. Additionally, if you used a firearm during the robbery, you could face a ten-year sentencing enhancement. Contact an experienced Los Angeles County criminal defense lawyer right away to ensure your rights and freedom remain protected.
Call Wegman & Levin today at (818) 980-4000 to schedule a free consultation with a skilled Los Angeles criminal defense attorney.
