Last Updated on: 26th July 2023, 10:54 pm

Facing Charges? Here’s What You Need to Know About New York Penal Code 160.15 – Robbery in the First Degree

Let’s talk about New York Penal Code Section 160.15 and what it means if you or someone you love is charged with robbery in the first degree. I know seeing “first degree” is scary but stay with me, knowledge is power here.

First, Penal Code 160.15 states that a person is guilty of robbery in the first degree when they forcibly steal property while armed with a deadly weapon. That’s the legal jargon but let me break it down in simple terms:

– Forcibly stealing means taking someone’s property against their will by using or threatening physical force.

– Being armed with a deadly weapon means displaying anything that could cause serious physical injury or death. This includes guns, knives, clubs, explosives, etc.

– The stolen property has to be taken directly from the victim or in their presence. So mugging someone at gunpoint on the street qualifies but later using their stolen credit card doesn’t.

See the difference from a regular robbery? The weapon and face-to-face nature make it much more serious in the eyes of the law.

Now, robbery in the first degree is classified as a Class B felony. That means if convicted, you face a minimum of 5 years and maximum of 25 years in prison. Yikes. So fighting these charges is critical, which is why having an experienced attorney is key.

Possible Defenses If You’re Charged

The good news is there are defenses that an attorney may use to get your robbery in the first degree charges reduced or dismissed. For example:

– You were wrongfully identified as the perpetrator

– You acted in self-defense against violence initiated by the victim

– The item you allegedly stole wasn’t actually taken or didn’t belong to the victim

– You didn’t display a weapon or what appeared to be a weapon

– The “weapon” doesn’t meet the legal definition of a deadly weapon

As you can see, the prosecution must prove every element of robbery in the first degree beyond a reasonable doubt. So an experienced attorney will look for ways to create doubt around the circumstances, weapon presence, use of force, and more. Just a sliver of doubt could lead to acquittal or conviction on a lesser charge.

Next Steps If You’re Arrested

If you have been arrested for robbery in the first degree, here are important steps to take immediately:

– Remain silent and avoid discussing the incident until you have legal counsel

– Be polite and compliant during any police interactions

– Contact a trusted criminal defense lawyer and follow their advice

– Do not discuss the case or charges on social media at all

– Ask about options for bail or pretrial release

– Start gathering exonerating evidence like alibis, character references, proof of mistaken identity, etc.

– Talk to witnesses who could potentially provide favorable testimony

Staying calm and being proactive will serve you well. The more prepared your legal team is, the better the outcome is likely to be.

Choose Your Representation Carefully

Listen, you need more than just any lawyer – you need a lawyer who loves the challenge of tough cases and knows how to defend serious felony charges. Don’t leave your fate in the hands of an indifferent public defender or someone out of their depth. Your future is too important.

In cases like this, experience is absolutely critical. You need someone who has seen every trick prosecutors try to pull and fought back successfully. Knowledge of NYC courts, judges, and juries is also hugely beneficial.

I’d recommend looking into attorneys like Todd Spodek of Spodek Law Group if you’re searching for real hope right now. For over 45 years, he has successfully defended clients facing major robbery charges as well as other violent felonies in NYC. He’s compassionate yet aggressive and always ready to battle in court.

Don’t lose hope. With an expert defense lawyer, you can fight these charges and work toward the best possible outcome. It won’t be easy but taking that first step is critical. You’ve got this! Now go find the lawyer with the experience, resources, and determination to challenge Penal Code 160.15 on your behalf. Your future is depending on it.