Armed Robbery Attorney

The state of Georgia does not play when it comes to armed robbery. Armed robbery is defined as a robbery committed with an offensive weapon, a replica of an offensive weapon, or a device having the appearance of any such weapon. This means that even if a robbery is committed without an actual weapon, but the robber implied they had a weapon or had something that looked like a weapon, perhaps a toy gun, then they could be charged with armed robbery.

Defending Against Armed Robbery Charges in Cumming

Criminal charges that are of the caliber of armed robbery are life-changing. A guilty verdict will guarantee the fact that your life will never be the same. A simple charge is already enough to start causing waves in your life that will affect some areas you might not have considered.

If you’re facing an armed robbery charge, contact our Cumming Criminal Defense Lawyer at 470-206-2169 to schedule a free consultation.

What Are The Penalties for Armed Robbery in Cumming?

Georgia considers armed robbery to be a violent felony offense.

The first felony offense comes with a minimum of a ten-year prison sentence and tops out with a maximum of 20 years behind bars. The second conviction can result in life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Anyone with three prior felonies in any state in the United States who then commits an armed robbery in Georgia will be required to serve the maximum sentence without the possibility of parole.

You do not even have to be the person who committed an armed robbery to be charged with a crime in Georgia. Being involved with an armed robbery in any capacity, whether by casing the joint, planning the robbery, or even buying the gun, can land a person with “party to the crime” charges.

How Can Armed Robbery Charges Affect Your Life?

Armed robbery is serious, and for good reason. You are being accused of putting someone else’s life in immediate damage for personal gain. You will be defending yourself not only in the eyes of the law but also in the eyes of public opinion.

Simply being charged, not even convicted, can lead to you losing your job, as employers may want to distance themselves from anyone associated with such a heinous crime.

Being charged with armed robbery can affect your family. If you lose your job, how are you going to provide for your loved ones? What will your parents think of you being charged with such a serious crime?

Suppose these charges turn into a conviction, even if you do not receive any significant prison time. In that case, you may lose any professional licenses you have, such as a commercial driver’s license.

Even if you do not hire an attorney or you rely on an overworked, under-experienced public defender, the legal fees can quickly add up and become a crushing burden that only you are responsible for.

What Are the Best Defenses Against Armed Robbery Charges?

When facing armed robbery charges in Georgia, establishing a strong defense strategy is essential. At Carl Chapman, P.C., we thoroughly examine all possible defenses and gather the necessary evidence to help you challenge the charges. Here are some key defenses that may apply.

Proving Innocence with an Alibi

One of the most effective defenses against armed robbery charges is proving your innocence with a solid alibi. If you were not present at the location of the crime, providing supporting evidence for your alibi can significantly strengthen your case. This evidence may include witnesses who can confirm your whereabouts at the time of the alleged offense, as well as documentation, such as work records, showing you were clocked in at your job. Additionally, security footage or digital records verifying your location can also serve as vital evidence. Our team assists you in gathering and organizing these pieces of evidence to present a clear picture of your innocence to the court.

Defending Against Charges of Forced Participation

Another defense option available under Georgia law is to claim that you were forced to commit the crime of armed robbery under duress. Duress occurs when someone threatens you or your loved ones, compelling you to act against your will. If you can demonstrate that you committed the act due to coercion or threats from another person, this defense may serve as a viable option. In these cases, we work to show how external pressure left you with no reasonable alternative but to comply with the demands placed upon you.

Claiming Self-Defense During an Incident

In certain circumstances, Georgia law may permit a claim of self-defense if you were compelled to use force to protect yourself or another person during the incident. For instance, if someone acted aggressively toward you, and you used force as a means of protection, or if the safety of another individual required immediate action on your part, you may have a valid defense. We evaluate the details of your case and the potential application of self-defense to determine if this angle is a strong option for your defense. While self-defense can be challenging to prove in armed robbery cases, we carefully examine all evidence to strengthen your position.

Facing armed robbery charges is a serious matter, but with thorough preparation and the right defense strategies, we work diligently to protect your rights under Georgia law. If you are dealing with armed robbery accusations, contact Carl Chapman, P.C. to discuss your case and learn more about your defense options. Together, we can navigate the complexities of your situation and work toward a favorable outcome.

Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney?

Armed robbery charges are serious and should be taken seriously from the start. The moment you are accused of an armed robbery should be the moment you stop speaking with police and start speaking with an attorney.

Our experienced criminal defense attorney in Cumming can help build a solid defense that will have the best odds of protecting your freedom.

Contact our firm by calling 470-206-2169 to speak with a lawyer today.