The Stakes Are High: Defining Armed Robbery in California

Armed robbery is a serious offense in California. Those charged with this crime are facing a potential maximum penalty of 25 years to life in prison. In such circumstances, it’s imperative to hire an experienced Los Angeles armed robbery attorney. Spodek Law Group, headed by Todd Spodek, is one such firm that provides legal knowledge, skill, and aggressiveness to protect your future. But before that, it’s important to understand the legal aspects of this crime.

Robbery in California is defined as a crime that involves at least two people, where the defendant takes property belonging to the alleged victim through the use of force or fear. The use of a weapon during the robbery, even a verbal threat of violence, is considered a violent offense, and a conviction carries hefty penalties. Second-degree burglary carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, whereas first-degree burglary can lead to a prison sentence of six to nine years. However, the use of a weapon in the commission of a robbery enhances the penalties.

Armed Robbery Means Enhanced Penalties

California law treats the use of a weapon in a robbery as a separate crime. Those convicted of armed robbery in Los Angeles may face additional prison time of 10 to 25 years. Even if the defendant possesses or brandishes a weapon during the robbery, they may be imposed with an additional 10-year term. Discharging a firearm during the robbery may result in an additional 20 years in prison. If someone is injured or dies during the robbery, the defendant could face a prison sentence of 25 years to life. The penalties for armed robbery are severe, and the prosecutor’s office pursues the charges zealously. Therefore, anyone accused of armed robbery in Los Angeles needs an attorney who is equally serious and zealous.

In such cases, a competent Los Angeles armed robbery attorney is necessary to exploit any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. A seasoned criminal defense lawyer conducts a thorough investigation of the defendant’s case, including reviewing police reports and questioning any witnesses who may have information about the incident. The primary goal of the Los Angeles armed robbery attorney is to avoid conviction for their client. If that’s not possible, there may still be an opportunity to have the charges reduced, leading to fewer years spent in prison and a better chance at building a life afterward.

The Consequences of Armed Robbery in California

The consequences of a robbery conviction in California go beyond prison time. A robbery conviction is classified as a felony, which complicates life endlessly for the person convicted. Felons lose their right to vote, possess firearms, and face difficulty in finding jobs, making it challenging to find a place to live or pay for basic necessities.

Robbery is also classified under California’s “three strikes law,” which may result in additional prison time for those who have previously been convicted of felonies under this law. If a defendant is convicted of robbery and later accused of other crimes, they may also face additional penalties. These penalties can add up quickly, and the defendant’s life will never be the same. Thus, avoiding a felony conviction is the first goal of any competent Los Angeles armed robbery attorney.

Experienced Los Angeles Armed Robbery Lawyers

The Los Angeles armed robbery attorneys at Spodek Law Group have significant experience in representing people accused of committing armed robbery. They believe that everyone deserves an aggressive defense, regardless of the evidence against them. The firm’s attorneys use their investigative and negotiating skills to help their clients fight for a brighter future.

The firm’s attorneys conduct a thorough investigation of the defendant’s case, reviewing police reports and questioning any witnesses who may have information about the incident. By working closely with the prosecutor, they know exactly what evidence they have against the defendant, which enables them to find the holes in the prosecution’s case and potentially undermine the charges. They strive to have the charges dropped or reduced so that the defendant can avoid conviction or face fewer years in prison.

In conclusion, being charged with armed robbery in California is a serious matter that can have life-altering consequences. If you’re facing such charges, it’s crucial to hire an experienced and competent Los Angeles armed robbery attorney. Spodek Law Group and its team of attorneys led by Todd Spodek have the legal knowledge, skill, and aggressiveness required to help you avoid a felony conviction or minimize your prison time. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for a brighter future.

Sources:

• California Penal Code Section 667 PC: Three Strikes Law
• Legal Consequences of a Felony Conviction in California
• Spodek Law Group Armed Robbery Defense Services
• California Penal Code Section 211 PC: Robbery
• California Penal Code Section 213 PC: Punishment for Robbery
• California Penal Code Section 12022 PC: Use of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony