An armed robbery criminal offense charge is severe. The most effective way to defend your freedom is to understand the statutes and prepare a strong defense. A conviction would mean having a violent crime on your permanent criminal history and the potential for life-altering penalties, such as serving a lengthy prison sentence.
You may also face lifelong negative consequences related to the violent felony conviction, such as the inability to work for certain employers or obtain new housing. Call a hard-working Upper Marlboro armed robbery lawyer today to meet and review your case this week for help with your case. A dedicated robbery attorney at The Law Office of Vernon Brownlee is ready to protect your rights.
State Armed Robbery Laws and Penalties
The potential punishments for armed robbery are severe, whether the arrest and charges are for attempting or completing the criminal action.
The state could issue a warrant for attempting to commit the action upon evidence or statements asserting the individual brandishes the weapon or threatens to have a weapon. It does not matter if the witness saw the weapon. The state prosecutor must establish the presence of specific elements to prove their case, including:
- The alleged defendant intended to take someone else’s property against their will and deprive them of the property permanently
- The property was in the possession of someone else
- The individual brandished or threatened to use a weapon to cause harm and force the other party to hand over the property
Demanding the property verbally with the threat of violence also falls within the statute. An Upper Marlboro armed robbery arrest attorney could answer specific questions and review options during the consultation after reviewing the case.
Penalties and Consequences for Armed Robbery
Armed robbery is a felony offense with the potential for severe penalties and lasting adverse consequences. Under Maryland Criminal Law Code Annotated § 3-403, a person found guilty of the offense will serve a maximum of 20 years in prison, depending on the case circumstances.
State criminal laws require those convicted of criminal offenses to serve at least 50 percent of the term of imprisonment before parole eligibility. Other consequences include losing certain rights and freedoms, such as voting or owning firearms as a convicted felon.
Defense Strategies for Accusation of Armed Robbery
Defense strategies vary depending on the case circumstances. However, some common strategies for armed robbery include:
- Establishing there is no evidence of criminal intent
- No weapon or threat of using a weapon to take the property
- Invalidating the state’s evidence through skilled litigation
- Innocence, such as proof of an alibi for the time the robbery occurred
- No weapon or threat of using a weapon to take the property
- Arguing the issue with he said, she said if witness statements lead to the arrest
- Evidence the alleged defendant genuinely believed they were the rightful owner of the property, and they were defending themselves
A seasoned armed robbery defense lawyer in Upper Marlboro could review the allegations and arrest circumstances to determine the best strategy based on the unique situation.
Seek Guidance From a Seasoned Upper Marlboro Armed Robbery Attorney
An arrest for armed robbery is frightening and could change your life permanently if you are found guilty. Taking immediate action to begin preparing your defense is crucial, even if the court date is months away.
An experienced Upper Marlboro armed robbery lawyer at The Law Office of Vernon Brownlee understands the severity of your situation and the stress you face. We could help strategize a strong defense and fight for your freedom and rights inside and outside the courtroom. Call soon to review your case in an initial consultation.
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