Fort Myers Robbery Defense Lawyer
How Common are Robbery Charges in Fort Myers?
Robbery is a common occurrence in Fort Myers. With 74 robberies per 100,000 people, the rate is higher than the national average. This means someone living in Fort Myers has a higher chance of being robbed than elsewhere in the United States, and they also have a good chance of being arrested for armed robbery.
Over 10 years, police arrested nearly 100,000 people for robbery in Florida. Depending on the type of charges, you may be facing an uphill battle: 90% of federal robbery charges resulted in a conviction. Among people convicted of robbery, the average sentence is about nine years. That’s why if you or a loved one has been arrested for robbery in Florida, you must contact our experienced defense attorney. A robbery attorney may be all that stands between you and years of your life lost to prison, plus a record that will follow you for decades to come.
What is Considered Robbery?
Robbery is a felony offense with a fairly broad definition under Florida law. Per Title XLVI, Chapter 812 of the Florida Statutes, robbery occurs any time someone takes money or property from someone by using:
- Force
- Threats
- Violence/Weapons
It may be easier to find yourself facing robbery charges than you might think. For example, if someone owes you money for work or other services you provided, and you get into an argument about payment, you may be charged with robbery if you make that person feel threatened into paying you.
25% of people who are charged with robbery have never been arrested for any other crimes. Regardless of whether the robbery is your first offense, you may still face severe penalties, including prison and fines.
What are the Penalties for Robbery?
America places a high value on hard work. Because of this, theft crimes are considered among the worst crimes a person can commit. As a result, robbery carries heavy potential penalties.
Whether or not you used a weapon is a major determining factor in sentencing. Armed robbery carries significantly greater penalties than robbery committed without a weapon.
Robbery committed without a weapon, or simple robbery, is a second-degree felony. It is punishable by a $10,000 fine and up to 15 years in prison.
Armed robbery carries stiffer penalties. Armed robbery is a first-degree felony. Someone convicted of armed robbery can expect to face between 10 and 25 years in prison, with a possible life sentence depending on the circumstances. Florida is especially tough on gun crime and has instituted mandatory minimum sentences. Even if you don’t fire your weapon, simply having a gun during a robbery can result in a heavier punishment.
These are only a few potential sentences for robbery. Depending on the type of robbery and the circumstances under which it occurred, you may face additional charges. That’s why it’s essential to contact an experienced defense attorney.
What are Some Defenses to Robbery?
Robbery charges are often challenging to defend against. Prosecutors will try to make the case very simple and black-and-white, stripping away any nuance to the case. That’s where our experienced and compassionate defense attorney steps in. Our robbery defense attorney knows a variety of strategies and techniques to defend clients in the courtroom.
Intent is a primary potential defense. The prosecution must prove that you intended to intimidate the alleged victim into giving you their money or possessions. If a defense attorney can demonstrate that you did not intend to intimidate the alleged victim, and that they either were not in genuine fear or had no reasonable reason to feel fear, you may be acquitted.
Genuine innocence or mistaken identity is another defense. Many robbery cases involve misunderstandings or complex situations. In other instances, the accused did not take anything. If an attorney can demonstrate that you never came into possession of the money or goods in question, it can be a viable defense. Text messages, social media posts, and conversations between different parties can be valuable in these circumstances. An experienced defense attorney will be able to collect the necessary evidence.
Lack of evidence is another potential defense. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed robbery. An attorney can review your case and determine if an overzealous legal system is attempting to charge you based on the alleged victim’s testimony and insufficient evidence. If there is not enough evidence to build a solid case against you or if the evidence is inadequate, an attorney can have it suppressed, thrown out, or even have the case dismissed.
What Should I Do if I’ve Been Arrested for Robbery?
It’s easier to get arrested for robbery than you might think, and just as easy to get convicted. Before you know it, you could be facing decades—or even the rest of your life—in prison. Even if you manage to avoid a prison sentence or only receive a minimal sentence, the stigma of being a convicted robber can follow you for the rest of your life. A robbery conviction can especially impact your ability to find and maintain employment. Don’t let robbery charges bring your life to a halt. If you or a loved one has been arrested for robbery, contact Sherman Defense Firm, P.A. right away.
Our attorney, Melissa Sherman, brings 15 years of courtroom experience. Using her unique and trial-tested Sherman Defense Technique, she’s obtained innumerable acquittals for people accused of robbery. With Melissa Sherman and her legal team on your side, you don’t have to worry about someone stealing your future from you. If you or a loved one has been arrested for robbery, act today and call 239-539-6818 to schedule your consultation.