Robbery is a serious criminal offense that doesn’t only involve the theft of something, but violence or the threat of violence also. This is precisely why the criminal courts of Massachusetts penalized those convicted of robbery so severely. If you are accused of robbery, you need someone on your side advocating for your best interests, someone like me.
Having represented numerous clients accused of all sorts of criminal offenses, I know what kind of stress you are under. You are facing prison time, fines, and consequences that can change your life forever. It’s because of this that you can’t give up without a fight.
The penalties for a robbery conviction can affect you in ways you never thought possible. By working with a local defense lawyer you may be able to mitigate the possible consequences of these charges.
Whether you admit to robbing someone and are seeking a lenient sentence through a plea bargain, or if you are innocent of the charges against you, I can help you build a solid defense strategy to get the best possible results on your case.
Massachusetts Robbery Laws and Penalties
In Massachusetts, there are several laws that govern robbery offenses. The facts of your case determine what charge you will face and the potential penalty you could be sentenced to.
Simple Assault with the Intent to Rob or Steal
If you assault another person with force and violence, and with the intent to rob or steal them, you will be charged with a felony. This charge carries up to 10 years in prison.
Robbery of a Victim Aged 60 or Older
If you are accused of robbing someone or stealing from someone with force, who is over the age of 60, you could face a life sentence in prison. Judges have extreme discretion in sentencing cases like these. If, however, this is your second such offense, you will face a mandatory minimum sentence of at least 2 years in prison.
Stealing by Confining or Putting in Fear
This crime applies specifically to banks or other similar places where you use fear or violence to commit larceny. It is punishable by any sentence up to life in prison.
Armed Robbery
If you commit robbery of a person or business while armed with a dangerous weapon, you will face a mandatory minimum sentence. If this is your first such offense, you will face at least 5 years behind bars. If this is your second such offense, you could face a minimum sentence up 15 years in prison.
The stakes are extremely high when you are accused of a crime like this. Contact our offices today to discuss how we might be able to help.