Chesapeake Robbery Lawyer
Robbery is a common-law crime in Virginia and is defined as “the taking of property from another by violence or intimidation with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of his property.” The threat or use of violence must occur before or at the time of the taking. The intent to steal must exist at or before the time the violence was committed or threatened.
When shopping for a defense attorney, it is crucial to hire an accomplished legal professional. Experience is invaluable, and a dedicated theft attorney with a great deal of experience will be more comfortable in the courtroom and will have more to draw upon than attorney who has not handled many cases.
Prosecuting Robbery Charges
The elements of robbery are the use or threat of violence against the alleged victim and the theft of property from the victim’s person or presence. A prosecutor must prove a taking with the intent to deprive the owner permanently of personal property from their person or in their presence against their will by violence or intimidation. The threat or use of violence must occur before or at the time of the taking, and the intent to steal must exist at or before the time the violence was committed or threatened.
A more experienced attorney is more likely to know something concerning the case that the prosecutor will not. A seasoned attorney could be a better trial lawyer than the prosecutor. Such experience can be the difference between a conviction or an acquittal and will also be more experienced in negotiating, which could lead to a lighter sentence. Therefore, it is crucial for defendants to seek the services of an accomplished robbery lawyer in Chesapeake.
Benefits of Having a Robbery Lawyer
One example of how a skilled criminal defense attorney will be helpful is if a case was going to a jury trial. A prosecutor will probably appear a little wooden while a criminal defense attorney might have a more commanding presence. A jury might be more receptive to an individual who appears to know what they are doing as it is important to appear comfortable in a courtroom. A judge might think the same as well.
Robbery Penalties
Robbery is a felony offense and if a person is convicted, they will be a convicted felon. A felony charge is the most serious charge one can face in the United States. Its punishment is life in prison or any term of incarceration not less than five years. A felony conviction deprives an individual of their right:
- To vote
- To own a firearm
- To hold public office
- To serve on a jury
- To hold certain professional licenses
- To live in some public housing
- To receive certain loans
In short, a felony conviction can be devastating for the life and career of an individual, and it carries with it a stigma that can follow them for the rest of their life. This is why it is essential for accused people to contact a robbery attorney in Chesapeake as soon as possible.
Reach Out to a Chesapeake Robbery Attorney Today
A person charged with robbery definitely needs to have an attorney due to the seriousness of the crime. The best attorney to represent them would be one who has knowledge of the law and knows how to use all available options. A criminal lawyer should also be diligent. Everything a criminal defense attorney does in the course of representation should be in the best interests of the defense. In robbery cases, speaking with witnesses and getting a complete picture of the incident is crucial. A skilled criminal attorney gathers as much information as possible and is prepared to present that information at any trial or hearing.
Robbery is one of the most serious crimes an individual can be charged with. When one is facing the possibility of being imprisoned for life, it is essential to be in contact with someone who knows the law and who could possibly get the charge dismissed or reduced. Call a Chesapeake robbery lawyer today.
