Annapolis Robbery Lawyer
The prospect of facing any type of criminal charges can be frightening, especially when you consider all of the potential consequences of a criminal conviction. The good news is that there are many defenses out there that may apply to your case if you have the information that you need.
An Annapolis robbery lawyer may be able to analyze your case and determine what defenses may be applicable in your case, as well as develop an effective strategy to combat the charges against you.
An experienced theft attorney could help you prevent or avoid some or all of the consequences of a robbery conviction. While every case is different, and every set of circumstances is different, you should explore what options are available to you in your particular situation, including any defenses or evidentiary issues that may arise.
While there are no guarantees, seasoned legal counsel may be able to facilitate this process for you.
Defining Robbery in Maryland
Maryland Criminal Code §3-401(e) sets forth the elements for robbery, which is unique in that it includes both theft and an element of violence or threatened violence. These elements include:
- Intentional taking of property and services
- Possessed by others, either on their persons or in their immediate vicinity
- Through force or the threat of force
- With the intent to permanently withhold, use, or dispose of the property, or only restore the property to its owner upon payment
For the purposes of defining robbery, property can be anything of value. Additionally, there is no requirement that violence actually occur in order for an act to qualify as a robbery. There need only be the threat of violence. If someone has further questions about the legal definition of robbery in Annapolis, they should contact a knowledgeable attorney today.
Potential Penalties for Robbery
Committing or attempting to commit robbery in Annapolis is a felony that carries a potential penalty of up to 15 years in prison pursuant to §3-402. Furthermore, any felony conviction is likely to result in collateral consequences, including an inability to vote, exclusion from some types of jobs and occupations, and difficulties in finding a home to rent.
Robbery-Related Crimes and Penalties
In some cases, a robbery or attempted robbery conviction can result in even more serious charges and penalties upon a conviction. If individuals use a firearm or other deadly weapon or even claim that they are using such a weapon during the commission of a robbery or attempted robbery, they can receive a felony conviction for armed robbery, which can result in up to 20 years in prison under §3-403.
Likewise, carjacking pursuant to §3-405 involves individuals who take possession or control of a motor vehicle without authorization or permission through the use of force, threat of force, intimidation, or other means of putting victims in fear of their safety. For a carjacking conviction, individuals can face up to 30 years in prison. Individuals also can be convicted of armed carjacking in appropriate factual circumstances. An Annapolis robbery lawyer could work tirelessly to mitigate the penalties that an individual may face.
Reaching Out to an Annapolis Robbery Attorney
In order to most effectively protect yourself against any criminal charges, you may consider what you could gain from strong legal representation by an Annapolis robbery lawyer. Robbery charges are serious and have wide-reaching implications, not the least of which are significant impacts on your freedom.
There are defenses that may be useful in fighting robbery charges, but getting the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney can be useful in considering those defenses. Contact a skilled legal advocate to act on your behalf today, which could be the key to avoiding the full range of legal repercussions from a robbery conviction.