Robbery

Fairfax Lawyers Representing People Accused of Robbery

Robbery is one of the most serious theft crimes the State can charge a person with in Virginia. Unlike some theft crimes, robbery involves the use of force against the alleged victim, and therefore, people accused of robbery are aggressively prosecuted. If you are accused of robbery or any other theft crime, it is essential to retain the assistance of a skilled criminal attorney who can help you to formulate a solid defense. The assertive Fairfax criminal defense lawyers of Crowley Peritz Law have ample experience defending people charged with robbery in the Virginia courts, and we possess the knowledge and resources needed to help you pursue a favorable outcome. Our office is located in Fairfax, and we often defend people charged with robbery and other theft crimes in cities in Northern Virginia.

Robbery Charges in Virginia

In Virginia, robbery is defined as taking property from another individual by using threats, intimidation, force, or violence, with the intent of permanently depriving the person of the property. Robbery is a felony. The precise grade of the offense depends on the manner in which it was committed. If the defendant committed robbery and caused the death or serious bodily injury of another person, they will be guilty of a Class 2 felony and can be sentenced to up to life in prison; if they use deadly force that does not result in serious bodily injury, or use a deadly weapon other than a firearm, it constitutes a Class 5 felony, which carries a sentence of up to ten years in prison. People who commit robberies using or showing firearms in a threatening manner are guilty of Class 3 felonies, which are punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Last, if a person commits robbery using intimidation, threats, or any other means that do not involve the use of a deadly weapon, they will be guilty of a Class 6 felony, which can result in up to five years in prison.

Burdens of Proof in Robbery Cases

The prosecution bears the burden of proof in robbery cases. In other words, to convict a defendant of robbery under Virginia law, the prosecution must prove each element of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. There is no exact definition for the beyond a reasonable doubt standard, but it is generally understood to mean that the evidence so strongly suggests the defendant is guilty that no reasonable person could come to any other conclusion. If the prosecution cannot meet its burden of proof, the defendant should be found not guilty.

No burden of proof is imposed on criminal defendants, however. This means that criminal defendants do not have to offer any evidence in their defense. Additionally, they cannot be compelled to testify. Many criminal attorneys offer defenses on behalf of their clients, however. In some instances, an attorney may point out the flaws in the prosecution’s arguments or note that they failed to establish one or more elements of the charged offense. If there were errors during the investigation process, the defense attorney may be able to argue that the defendant’s constitutional rights were violated. For example, if the defendant was questioned without being advised of the right to an attorney, it may violate their right against self-incrimination. If they were searched without a warrant, it might constitute an unreasonable search.

Meet With a Skilled Fairfax Lawyer About Your Charges

If you are accused of robbery, it is in your best interest to talk to an attorney about your potential defenses. The skilled Fairfax lawyers of Crowley Peritz Law take pride in helping people charged with theft offenses fight to protect their liberties, and if you engage our services, we will zealously pursue the best result available under the circumstances. Our office is in Fairfax, and we frequently assist people in robbery cases in cities throughout Northern Virginia and Fairfax, Loudoun, Frederick, Prince William, and Stafford Counties, including McLean, Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, Annandale, Centreville, Burke, Herndon, Reston, Vienna, Falls Church, Stephens City, Ashburn, Dulles, Leesburg, Manassas, Dale City, Lake Ridge, Linton Hall, Woodbridge, Stafford, and Winchester. You can reach us to schedule a confidential meeting by using our online form or calling us at (703) 337-3773.