Robbery isn’t “just a theft crime,” as if a theft crime isn’t serious. But, it’s a theft crime with an additional violent element. It’s because of this additional element that robbery is penalized far more severely than a theft offense.
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If you are accused of robbery, you are facing serious consequences. In addition to the possibility of spending several years behind bars, you will also be forced to pay fines and carry around the label of a convicted violent felon.
When you are up against challenges like this, a local attorney can assist you by advocating for your best interests and fighting to protect your rights. Contact our offices to see how we can help.
Washington State Robbery Laws and Penalties
There are several different statutes that govern robbery in the Washington Revised Code. First off, the law defines the offense of robbery as:
Unlawfully taking personal property from the person of another or in his presence, against his will by the use or threatened use of immediate force, violence, or fear of injury to that person, their property, or to any person or property.
The exact charge you face will depend on the facts of your case.
Second Degree Robbery
If you are accused of committing robbery, as defined above, you will be faced with this Class B Felony charge. While penalties vary considerably, a Class B Felony generally carries up to 10 years in prison and $20,000 in fines.
First Degree Robbery
The crime of first degree robbery is more serious and involves a robbery offense where you:
- Are armed with a deadly weapon,
- Display a firearm or deadly weapon,
- Inflict bodily injury, or
- Commit the robbery against a financial institution.
Robbery in the 1st degree is classified as a Class A Felony and carries up to life in prison and fines reaching $50,000.
Defense Strategies
The laws governing robbery offenses are very severe. The stakes are high. But fortunately, there are options available. By researching your case, your attorney will be able to help you formulate a solid defense strategy in an effort to get you the best results possible on your case.
This could involve a plea agreement to get the charges reduced, or fighting the charges at trial. The facts of your case will determine the best course of action.
If you are charged with a robbery offense, contact us today to discuss the specifics and how we might be able to help.
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