A robbery offense can lead to serious consequences such as incarceration, a monetary fine and/or probation. That is why you may want to immediately contact a Fort Worth robbery lawyer if you have been charged with this offense.
An accomplished defense attorney can help you understand the charges you are facing and navigate the legal system. They could also aggressively fight for you throughout the process to seek the best possible outcome given the circumstances of your case.
Legal Definitions of Robbery
Robbery is the use of force or intimidation to take someone else’s property with no intention to return it. As is true in most states, Texas divided the concept of robbery into different levels of crimes with distinguishing characteristics and varying penalties. As a result, there are two distinct types of robbery in Texas:
- Simple robbery – the forceful theft of someone else’s property without the use of any weapon
- Aggravated robbery – the forceful theft of someone else’s property that includes the exhibition and/or use of a deadly weapon
Because all types of robbery involve the use of force or intimidation, they are all classified as crimes of violence. Although the penalties for such crimes vary depending on violence allegedly involved, anyone facing these charges in Texas faces severe consequences.
Potential Penalties in Fort Worth
The potential penalties for a robbery conviction in Texas are delineated in Chapter 29 of the Texas Penal Code. A simple robbery offense may be a second-degree felony in Texas, which means anyone facing these charges may face two to 20 years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. The actual sentence that is imposed may depend on several factors such as the nature and extent of the violence involved and the individual’s prior criminal record.
An aggravated robbery is categorized as a first-degree felony, which may be punishable by five to 99 years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000. The actual sentence someone may receive may depend heavily on the facts of the specific case.
Possible Defenses
People facing robbery charges often face related charges as well. Depending on the circumstances, these related charges could include assault and battery, criminal trespass, or unlawful possession of a firearm.
Someone facing robbery charges may also be able to raise several defenses against the allegations. These may include matters such as contested forensic evidence, discrepancies in witness statements, and misidentification of the defendant. A robbery lawyer in Fort Worth could help build a viable defense for the accused.
If the prosecution fails to produce enough evidence to support the charges that have been brought against the defendant, they may not be able to convict the person. Generally, the jury decides whether someone committed the charges they are facing.
Reach Out to a Fort Worth Robbery Attorney Today
Facing criminal charges is always stressful, but, given the potential penalties, facing robbery charges is especially overwhelming. Your future and freedom may feel threatened. However, if you are facing robbery charges, an assertive Fort Worth robbery lawyer can help.
They understand the nuances of the law and can use that to your advantage. An attorney can aggressively argue to protect your rights. Call today to set up a consultation.
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