Robbery is one of the most serious crimes under California law, and a conviction can result in significant state prison time. If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with robbery, the most important step you can take right now is to secure experienced legal representation. Attorney David A. Stein has built a reputation for aggressive and effective criminal defense throughout Orange County and Southern California, and he is ready to fight for you.
What Is Robbery?
Under California Penal Code Section 211, robbery is defined as the taking of personal property from another person against their will, accomplished by means of force or fear. Unlike theft or burglary, robbery involves a direct confrontation with the victim, which is why California law treats it as one of its most serious violent offenses.
Robbery is divided into two degrees under California law:
- First Degree Robbery (PC 211): Robbery of a person in an inhabited dwelling, on a transit vehicle or station, or of a person who has just used an ATM or is operating a vehicle for hire. First degree robbery is punishable by three, four, or six years in state prison.
- Second Degree Robbery: All other robbery that does not meet the first degree criteria. Punishable by two, three, or five years in state prison.
Sentence Enhancements
The base sentences for robbery can be significantly increased by a number of factors, including:
- Use of a firearm during the robbery (adds 10 years; 20 years if the gun is fired; 25-to-life if someone is seriously injured or killed)
- Acting in concert with two or more other people
- Causing great bodily injury to the victim
- Prior strike convictions under California’s Three Strikes law
Robbery is also classified as a “strike” offense under California’s Three Strikes law, which means a conviction becomes part of your strike record and can dramatically increase sentencing for any future felony conviction.
Defending Robbery Charges
Attorney David A. Stein understands that robbery cases often turn on eyewitness identification, video evidence, and the credibility of witnesses. His defense strategy may include:
- Challenging the reliability of eyewitness identification
- Examining whether force or fear was actually used as defined under the law
- Investigating whether a false accusation or misidentification occurred
- Reviewing surveillance footage and forensic evidence
- Determining whether any constitutional rights were violated during the investigation or arrest
The consequences of a robbery conviction are too significant to face without the best possible legal representation.
Call (949) 528-8057 today to speak with David A. Stein.