Frisco, TX Robbery Defense Lawyers

Skilled Attorneys for Charges of Robbery or Aggravated Robbery in Frisco, Texas

Robbery is one of the most serious theft-related offenses that a person may face in Texas. Unlike many other forms of theft, robbery involves violence or the threat of violence, which may elevate an offense to a felony. Due to the ways people may be affected by violent crimes, prosecutors may be more likely to take a harsh stance against defendants in these cases, and a conviction can lead to years in prison, a permanent criminal record, and long-term consequences that are likely to affect every area of a person's life.

The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm provide legal representation for people in Frisco who have been accused of robbery or aggravated robbery. These charges can be complex, and they may involve conflicting witness statements, unclear intent, or mistaken identity. Our lawyers are prepared to work closely with clients to investigate the circumstances of an alleged offense, challenge the evidence, and fight to prevent a felony conviction while minimizing the effects of these charges on a person's life and future.

How Robbery Is Defined in Texas

Under Texas Penal Code Section 29.02, a person may be charged with robbery if they are accused of committing theft while threatening someone or acting in a way that caused someone to fear that they would suffer harm. Robbery charges may also apply if a person allegedly caused someone to suffer an injury while committing theft.

Charges of robbery may apply even if no weapon was used, and even if any injuries that occurred were minor. The key factor will usually be the use of force or the threat of injury that allegedly occurred during the commission of a theft.

Examples of situations that may lead to robbery charges include:

• Pushing a store employee while attempting to flee with stolen merchandise and causing the person to fall down and suffer an injury
• Striking a victim during a purse snatching or mugging
• Threatening someone with physical harm during a robbery attempt

Aggravated Robbery Charges

A robbery charge may be elevated to aggravated robbery under Texas Penal Code Section 29.03 if one or more aggravating factors are present. These aggravating factors include:

• The use or exhibition of a deadly weapon during the commission of the robbery
• The infliction of a serious bodily injury to another person
• A victim who is 65 years of age or older or who is disabled

Penalties for Robbery and Aggravated Robbery

The penalties for robbery-related offenses in Texas are severe, and they can result in significant prison sentences. Robbery is typically classified as a second-degree felony, and a conviction may be punishable by a sentence of two to 20 years in prison. Accusations of aggravated robbery can lead to first-degree felony charges, and a conviction may be punishable by a prison sentence ranging from five to 99 years.

In addition to prison time, a conviction may also lead to penalties including:

• A maximum fine of $10,000
• A permanent felony record
• The loss of voting and firearm rights
• Difficulties finding employment and housing

Because robbery is classified as a violent offense, people who are convicted of these crimes will often face tougher sentencing considerations. They may also have limited access to parole.

Defense Strategies for Robbery Charges

The attorneys at Barbieri Law Firm can work with clients to develop defense strategies that are based on a thorough review of the evidence and the facts surrounding the arrest. Possible defenses may include:

• Lack of Intent: If a person did not intend to threaten or harm another person, this may be a defense against charges of robbery. Our lawyers may argue that charges should be reduced to theft or dismissed entirely.
• Mistaken Identity: Robbery cases often rely on eyewitness identification, which can be unreliable. If the wrong person was identified, our attorneys may challenge the accuracy of a witness's statements. We may be able to demonstrate that our client had an alibi, or we may use other evidence, such as surveillance footage, to dispute the identification of the suspect.
• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution has the burden of proving the elements of robbery beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is incomplete or inconsistent, our attorneys may seek a dismissal or acquittal.
• Violations of Constitutional Rights: If police officers failed to advise our client of their rights or used improper tactics during an arrest or interrogation, our lawyers may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the legality of the arrest.
• Plea Agreements: In some cases, our attorneys may negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or minimize the sentences that will apply upon conviction. This may be a beneficial approach when a person has no prior criminal record or when there are mitigating factors.

Contact Our Frisco, Texas Robbery Defense Attorneys

Following charges of robbery or aggravated robbery, it is essential to speak with a defense attorney as soon as possible. These charges can lead to life-changing penalties, but with the right legal representation, a person can challenge the accusations and work to achieve a favorable outcome to the situation. Contact the Frisco robbery lawyers at Barbieri Law Firm by calling 972-424-1902 and scheduling a free consultation today.