Robbery is one of the most serious felonies enumerated under the law in Wellington. Those convicted of robbery could face years or even decades in prison, even for a first-time offense. If you are facing robbery charges in Wellington, now is the time to learn how an experienced lawyer could defend you in court and potentially help you avoid serious legal consequences.
A Wellington robbery lawyer could work hard to defend you in court while protecting your rights to a fair trial and explore whether under certain circumstances you could perhaps get your charges reduced or dismissed. Speak with a capable criminal defense attorney that could advocate for you.
What is the Difference Between Robbery and Other Theft Crimes?
Local laws list numerous theft-related crimes, including robbery. The basic definition of theft is taking another person’s property without their permission and with the intent of permanently or temporarily depriving them of it. In other words, theft occurs when someone takes property that does not belong to them and they do not intend to give it back.
Unlike most other theft crimes, robbery is considered a violent crime. Robbery occurs when someone uses force or the threat of force to commit theft. For example, if a person brandishes a knife—thereby showing a threat of force—while attempting to steal someone’s smartphone, they have committed robbery. Even shoving someone in an attempt to steal their property may be considered enough violence for a theft to qualify as robbery.
Robbery Crimes in Wellington
There are five main robbery charges as defined by state law. These offenses are:
- Sudden snatching
- Robbery with a deadly weapon other than a firearm
- Robbery with a firearm
- Home invasion
- Carjacking
All of these crimes are felonies and are punishable by long prison sentences. Depending on the circumstances, some robbery offenses can result in a life sentence for those convicted. Given the serious nature of these offenses, anyone facing such a charge may want to contact a Wellington robbery lawyer.
What is Sudden Snatching/Pickpocketing?
Many people do not realize that swiping someone’s purse, phone, or other property out of their hands is technically a robbery. This is because sudden snatching occurs when someone actually takes another person’s property out of their hands, out of their pockets, or otherwise removes the property from their body. Some degree of force is needed to accomplish this act.
While this kind of pickpocketing may not seem like a violent crime, the law considers it to be robbery. Therefore, those convicted of sudden snatching could face serious penalties, including a maximum prison sentence of five years, maximum fines of $5,000, and up to five years of probation. A skilled Wellington robbery attorney could attempt to mitigate the penalties that a person may face.
Felony Murder and Robbery Charges
When someone commits a felony crime such as robbery and another person dies as a result, the defendant may be additionally charged with felony murder. Felony murder is a capital offense, which means it is punishable by life in prison or death.
Robbery is a violent crime, and it sometimes results in the death of the person. Whether or not the defendant can be held accountable for that death depends on their role in the alleged crime.
Speak with a Wellington Robbery Attorney
If you or a loved one have recently been charged with robbery, and are concerned about the tough penalties you could face if convicted, consult a seasoned robbery defense attorney. Do not wait another minute before calling a skilled Wellington robbery lawyer for help, so they can begin building a robust defense for you.
