Last Updated on: 17th October 2023, 10:57 pm

Brooklyn Robbery Criminal Defense Lawyers

Being charged with robbery in Brooklyn can be scary. Robbery is a serious felony charge that can lead to years in prison if convicted. But with an experienced Brooklyn criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can fight the charges and protect your future.

In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about robbery charges in Brooklyn, from common defenses to finding the right lawyer for your case. We’ll also share tips on what to do if you or a loved one is facing robbery allegations.

What is Robbery in Brooklyn?

Under New York law, robbery is stealing property by using or threatening to use physical force. It goes beyond basic theft or larceny by involving violence or intimidation against the victim.

There are three main elements of a robbery charge in Brooklyn:

• Taking or attempting to take property from another person
• Using force or threatening to use force while doing so
• Having the intent to permanently deprive the victim of their property

Robbery is always a felony in New York. Depending on the circumstances, it can range from second-degree to first-degree robbery:

• Second-degree robbery involves displaying a weapon or causing minor injury during the crime.
• First-degree robbery is the most serious charge. It applies when you cause serious physical injury, are armed with a deadly weapon, or commit the robbery with one or more accomplices.

Penalties get harsher as the degree increases. Second-degree robbery carries up to 15 years in prison. First-degree can lead to 25 years or more.

Common Robbery Defenses in Brooklyn

Fighting a robbery charge starts with understanding the prosecutor’s burden of proof. They have to show beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed every element of the crime. A skilled Brooklyn robbery defense lawyer will look for weaknesses in their case and build defenses like:

You didn’t steal or attempt to steal property

If the prosecution can’t prove you actually took or tried to take property, they can’t meet this basic element of robbery. Your lawyer may argue mistaken identity or that you had permission to take the property.

No force or threat of force occurred

Without evidence you used violence or intimidation, the charges may get reduced to petty larceny or attempted petty larceny. You may not have made any threats at all.

You didn’t intend to deprive the owner permanently

If you meant to return the property or believed you had rights to it, you may not have had the intent to deprive the owner permanently. This could lead to getting the charges dismissed or reduced.

False accusations and mistaken identity

Eyewitnesses make mistakes all the time. If the victim or witnesses incorrectly identified you, your attorney can challenge the reliability of their testimony.

Duress or necessity defenses

These defenses claim you only committed the crime under threat of harm or because you had no reasonable alternative. For example, you may have been coerced by an abusive partner.

Intoxication

You can’t be found guilty if you were too intoxicated to form the required criminal intent. Your lawyer may argue drugs or alcohol prevented you from intending to commit robbery.

Mental illness

Like intoxication, mental disabilities or illness may have made you unable to understand your actions or form intent. A psychological evaluation could help show this.

An experienced robbery defense attorney will know when these and other defenses apply to your case. The key is leveraging them to get charges reduced or dismissed entirely.

Finding the Right Brooklyn Robbery Lawyer

Choosing the right lawyer is crucial for fighting robbery allegations in Brooklyn. Look for these important qualities:

• Local experience – A lawyer familiar with Brooklyn courts and prosecutors will know how to approach your case.
• Robbery focus – Not all criminal lawyers have in-depth robbery defense experience. Find one who does.
• Investigation skills – They’ll interview witnesses, visit the crime scene, and build evidence for your defense.
• Negotiation ability – Strong negotiators can often get charges reduced or dismissed through plea bargains.
• Trial record – If your case may go to trial, your lawyer should have courtroom experience and success.

Don’t just choose any lawyer you find online. Vet them thoroughly and ask hard questions about their robbery defense background. This is not the time to take chances with your future.

What to Do if You’re Charged with Robbery

Here are important steps to take if you or someone you love is facing robbery allegations in Brooklyn:

1. Remain silent – Don’t try to explain yourself to police. Anything you say can be used against you. Invoke your right to remain silent.
2. Hire a lawyer immediately – The sooner you have legal representation, the better your defense will be.
3. Follow their advice – Listen to your attorney and don’t take actions that could hurt your case.
4. Avoid social media – Posts discussing your case could come back to haunt you.
5. Begin gathering evidence – Your lawyer may ask for character references, medical records, or other documents to help build your defense.
6. Consider your options – Your attorney may recommend a plea deal or going to trial, depending on the evidence and potential sentences.

Facing robbery charges isn’t easy, but the stakes are high. These steps will help you make smart choices while letting your lawyer handle the legal strategy.

The Bottom Line

Robbery allegations must be taken seriously. The charges can ruin lives and send people to prison for years if not properly defended. Don’t leave your future to chance.

Partner with an experienced Brooklyn robbery defense lawyer as early as possible. Understand the elements the prosecution must prove, as well as potential defenses. Make smart decisions and trust your legal counsel to handle the rest.

With the right legal strategy and advocacy, many people charged with robbery are able to get their cases dismissed or charges substantially reduced. Don’t go it alone against seasoned prosecutors. Get expert help fighting for your rights, freedom, and future.