Indianapolis Robbery Lawyer
Many people use the terms theft and robbery interchangeably. While these are similar crimes, there are some differences. Robbery, for example, requires contact between the perpetrator and the victim. Plus, there must be some degree of force involved. Robbery is also different from burglary in that burglary requires the entry of a building, such as a home.
Because robbery is similar to other crimes, there can be some confusion as to what crime was committed. You could be accused of something you didn’t even do. That’s why you need a solid defense. The team at Rigney Law LLC can provide you with the advice you need so you can reduce your charges. Contact our Indianapolis robbery lawyer today to schedule a free consultation.
Robbery Charges
A person who intentionally takes property from another person by using force or putting the person in fear commits robbery. This is classified as a Level 5 felony. However, the offense is a Level 3 felony if a deadly weapon is involved or the victim suffers bodily injury. It is elevated to a Level 2 felony if it results in serious bodily injury to the victim.
A person who intentionally takes a controlled substance from a pharmacist by using force or putting the person in fear commits a Level 4 felony. However, the offense is a Level 2 felony if a deadly weapon is involved or the victim suffers bodily injury. The offense is a Level 1 felony if it results in serious bodily injury to the victim.
Defenses to Robbery
There are several defenses to robbery:
- You did not take the property. You might be able to avoid a conviction if you can show that you did not actually take the property from the victim. If you can prove that the victim gave you permission to take the property, these are possible defenses that could reduce your charges.
- Mistaken identification. Many robbery charges are based on eyewitness identification, but these have been proven to be unreliable. A lawyer should know how to attack eyewitness identification.
- Duress means you were forced into doing something against your will or better judgment. You may argue that you were forced to rob the victim by threats, constraints, or other acts.
- Entrapment is a potential defense to robbery if it can be proven that a law enforcement officer coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise would not have committed. However, this defense is a difficult one to prove.
Contact Rigney Law LLC Today
Robbery charges in Indiana can result in decades in prison as well as hefty fines. You need the right legal help on your side to reduce your charges.
The team at Rigney Law LLC can give you the right advice. Should you take a plea deal or plead innocent? We’ll guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation with our Indianapolis robbery lawyer today by filling out the online form or calling (317) 623-0989.
