Robbery takes many different forms, and depending on the circumstances, it can carry a severe penalty in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, there is one robbery every 22 minutes in the Sunshine State, making it one of the most common crimes. Police are better equipped than ever to arrest offenders, though, and the legal system will often make examples of those it convicts.
If you are facing criminal charges, such as those for theft or robbery, loitering and prowling, trespass or any other related offense, contact Leader & Leader, P.A. for advice. Michael D. Leader is a former prosecutor who is a well trained and skilled Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney with many years of experience in the courtroom. Nearly eight decades of combined legal experience give us the ability to evaluate your charges and help you build a sound defense.
To schedule an appointment with a lawyer, call us today at 954-523-2020. We can evaluate your charges and advise you on how to proceed under your specific circumstances. Read on for more information regarding robbery charges in Florida.
Robbery Laws in Florida
Florida Statute 812.13 covers laws specifically pertaining to robbery, as well as what constitutes a robbery in the state. In order for a prosecutor to secure a successful conviction, there are several elements that he or she will need to prove.
First, the prosecutor must show that the defendant took goods or money without the owner’s consent. Furthermore, the defendant must have taken the items directly from the victim’s body or immediate vicinity, or from a location that the victim controls.
The prosecutor will then attempt to show that the defendant took the items by using a degree of threat or intimidation. Typically, the prosecutor will claim the victim feared for his or her life while the robbery was taking place.
The property that the defendant stole must have some value, but there is no prescribed minimum value that it must have to constitute robbery. The defendant must have also shown intent to remove the item from the owner, even if only for a temporary period of time. Even without these elements, you may still face charges of theft or burglary even if robbery cannot be proven. Do not take any allegation lightly; consult with an innovative, skilled, knowledgeable and aggressive criminal defense attorney like Michael D. Leader as soon as possible. Do not wait for charges to be filed or your “court-date”.
Aggravating Factors
Penalties for robbery vary according to the specifics of the crime and may change depending on various factors. Factors that may increase the severity of the penalties include the use of a weapon and if the crime took place in the victim’s home. A prosecutor will evaluate the circumstances and elect what charges to file. In many instances, they can file more serious charges than police originally arrested you for. This is why you want to get competent and aggressive criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible; do not wait!
If you are looking for advice in the face of potential robbery charges or charges that have already been filed, call Leader & Leader P.A. Experienced Fort Lauderdale criminal lawyer Michael D. Leader can help you evaluate the severity of your situation and may be able to prevent or reduce the filed charges or build a defense if necessary to help reduce or dismiss the charges once filed.
The legal system can be unpredictable, and even if you think the charges are not serious, you may still face harsh penalties, including fines and jail time. Call us today at 954-523-2020 to schedule an appointment.
