McDonough Armed Robbery Lawyer
Armed robbery is one of the most serious theft offenses. A conviction could have life-long consequences such as lengthy prison terms, costly fines, and difficulty finding employment. Fortunately, there is no guarantee that an armed robbery arrest will result in a conviction. With a strong defense strategy and the guidance of a McDonough armed robbery lawyer, you could secure an acquittal in your case. Our dedicated criminal defense attorneys could advise you on your rights during this legal process and protect your future.
What Are Armed Robbery Charges?
Armed robbery occurs when the accused steals someone else’s property by using or threatening this person with a weapon. Due to its violent nature, this offense is always treated as a felony. It is possible for the state to secure a conviction for armed robbery when the accused takes property directly from another person or from a place that is within that individual’s immediate control. To obtain a conviction, the prosecution must prove the defendant committed the offense with the intention to take the property in question from the alleged victim. If the state is unable to prove this, the defendant is entitled to an acquittal. A McDonough attorney could find weaknesses in a prosecution’s case and address any concerns that a defendant has about their armed robbery charges.
Penalties For Using A Weapon To Steal
There are steep penalties that can come with an armed robbery conviction. Because this offense is a felony, a conviction could result in a lengthy prison term. Many first offense armed robbery cases lead to a jail sentence of 10 to 20 years. A person convicted of armed robbery for a second time could face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison or death.
There are also collateral consequences that can come with a conviction. A felony record could make it difficult to obtain employment or secure housing as landlords and prospective employers tend to have negative reactions to a criminal conviction. Other examples of collateral consequences may include the loss of voting rights or the ability to own a firearm.
It is vital to remember that these penalties only become a reality upon a conviction. If the defendant sees their case dismissed or is successful at trial, these penalties do not come into play. A lawyer in McDonough could help a person mitigate the penalties of an armed robbery offense.
Defenses Against Allegations Of Armed Robbery
There are many potential defenses to armed robbery charges. Some of the most common defense strategies include:
- Lack of evidence
- Arguing that a weapon was not present
- Lack of intent
- Violation of constitutional rights
- Mistaken identity
Developing a defense strategy is one of the most important steps an attorney in McDonough can take in an armed robbery case. While there are numerous defenses available, not every option is appropriate for any given case.
Talk To A Mcdonough Armed Robbery Attorney Today
An armed robbery conviction can alter the course of your life forever. In addition to prison time and fines, you could also face collateral consequences that could follow you forever. Serving as your own defense attorney is risky. Let a McDonough armed robbery lawyer put you in the best position to avoid a conviction.
For more information on McDonough Armed Robbery Lawyer In Georgia, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (470) 728-1725 today.