Negotiating Robbery to Theft in Philadelphia

The key difference between robbery and theft is that robbery is the use of violence or threat of violence when taking property from someone. Due to violence being involved, robbery is a more serious charge than theft. Therefore, someone who is charged with robbery may want to obtain an accomplished robbery lawyer who is experienced with negotiating robbery to theft in Philadelphia. If you have been arrested for robbery, call today to schedule a consultation with a seasoned attorney.

Taking a Plea Deal

Depending on the circumstances, a defense attorney may encourage a person charged with robbery to take a plea deal. In Philadelphia, when an individual is charged with robbery, they are looking at first or third-degree felony charges.

People charged with robbery could face as much as 10 years in jail and up to a $25,000 fine. Due to the severe penalties, an individual may want to work out a plea deal in order to face a lesser charge or sentence. Negotiating robbery to theft in Philadelphia may be possible with the help of a dedicated lawyer. An experienced attorney will work tirelessly to mitigate the charges to a less serious charge or prison sentence. Either way, a plea deal can and should at least be considered because it could prevent an individual from long periods of incarceration.

Robbery Vs. Theft

Robbery differs from theft because robbery is the highest level of theft that can be charged. Theft is the taking of an object from another with the intent to permanently deprive the lawful owner of it. When an assaultive behavior is included, such as a threat, threat of bodily injury, or actual bodily injury, then the crime of theft is charged as a robbery offense in Philadelphia. The assaultive nature is treated very seriously by the courts. All robbery charges in Philadelphia are graded as a felony of either the first degree or third degree.

A felony conviction can severely affect a person’s liberty by allowing the Commonwealth to seek long periods of incarceration and supervision. Felony convictions also have long-term consequences, such as affecting a person’s ability to obtain certain employment and the ability to legally own a firearm.

Severity of Felony Robbery Charges

Robbery elevates the severity of the crime once it leaves the misdemeanor grounds of theft. A minor robbery that is touching of another during a theft, no matter how slight, is often graded as a felony of the third degree. Felonies of the third degree can carry a sentence of no less than three and a half to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

When an injury is apparent or there was a threat of violence with a deadly weapon during the theft, the robbery is raised to the highest level of a felony, which is a felony of the first degree. A robbery of the first degree carries a penalty of up to 10 years in jail and a $25,000 fine. The severity of a robbery offense is why someone facing such charges needs to obtain a well-established lawyer who is capable of negotiating robbery to theft in Philadelphia.

How a Philadelphia Defense Attorney Could Help

If you have been arrested for robbery, a criminal defense attorney may be able to help. A seasoned lawyer will understand the system and will work from day one to protect your rights and mitigate or reduce the charges against you. It is important that you have an attorney who is experienced negotiating robbery to theft in Philadelphia. Seeking legal counsel is essential to your freedom.

If you have been charged with robbery, reach out to a lawyer today to see how a legal professional could assist you.