College Station Robbery Lawyer

Many theft charges in Texas come with minor consequences. When the amount stolen is minimal and you have a relatively clean criminal history, theft often results in probation and fines. However, robbery is different. While it is a theft crime, it has an added element that makes the State take it much more seriously—a threat of violence.

Robbery means taking something through force or the threat of force. Depending on the circumstances and your criminal history, the State can charge robbery as a second-degree felony up to a first-degree felony. Along with potential prison time, you may be responsible for hefty fees.

If you are facing these types of charges, a College Station robbery lawyer could offer critical guidance. Schedule a meeting with one of our determined theft crime attorneys today to review your case.

The Distinction Between Theft and Robbery

Theft, also known as larceny, involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Robbery is a distinct form of theft that involves using force, intimidation, or the threat of force to take another person’s property. Unlike standard theft, robbery requires violence or the threat of violence. This use of force or intimidation sets robbery apart from other types of theft.

Robbery Under State Law

Texas Penal Code § 29.01 provides that it is illegal for someone to intentionally cause or attempt to cause bodily injury to another person to obtain something of value, whether tangible or intangible.

To secure a conviction, the prosecutor must demonstrate that the defendant intended to commit theft and inflicted harm on the alleged victim during the act. The harm does not need to be physical; as long as the other person reports feeling fear for their safety, that can be sufficient grounds for robbery charges.

Robbery is generally defined as forcibly or threateningly taking someone’s property or money without their consent. Depending on the severity of the incident, the State may charge a person with first-degree robbery, third-degree robbery, or aggravated robbery, which a College Station attorney could explain in more detail.

Degrees of Robbery Offenses

First-degree robbery is when the person uses or threatens deadly force. Aggravated robbery is a particular type of first-degree robbery when they use a deadly weapon with the intent to cause severe injuries. When cases involve the following, it can elevate a charge from robbery to aggravated robbery:

• A disabled individual;
• A person over 65 years of age;
• Use or display of a deadly weapon; or
• Inflicting severe injuries.

First-degree robbery carries a substantial potential punishment. The sentence is up to 99 years in prison with a fine of $10,000. In addition, you might also be facing charges of assault, attempted murder, or homicide, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Third-degree robbery is when the robber does not have a weapon or cause serious bodily injuries. Speak with a College Station lawyer to learn more about the potential convictions you may be facing and how to build a solid robbery defense.

Get in Touch With a College Station Robbery Attorney Today

A robbery conviction can derail your life completely, making it essential that you contact legal counsel as soon as possible. If you suspect you are under suspicion of a robbery charge, it can help to reach out before an arrest or police questioning.

A College Station robbery lawyer could examine the facts of your case and devise a defense strategy on your behalf. The more time they have to work on your case, the more options they could explore. Schedule a consultation with our seasoned criminal defense attorneys today to get started.