Being accused of robbery in Redwood City, California, can be a frightening and life-changing experience. A robbery charge carries serious consequences, including significant fines and potential jail time.
Navigating the legal system on your own is challenging, which is why having a skilled Redwood City criminal defense attorney by your side is crucial for defendants. Contact or call (650) 299-0500 our team at Ahmed & Sukaram Criminal Defense Attorneys, to schedule a free consultation with a Redwood City robbery attorney.
How Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, Can Help If You’re Arrested For Robbery in Redwood City, CA
Being arrested for robbery in Redwood City, CA, carries serious consequences. Our legal team is committed to defending your rights and ensuring you receive the best chance of walking away without a criminal record. Our Redwood City criminal defense attorneys have 30 years of combined experience. We have been placed on the list of Super Lawyers Rising Stars and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100.
If you’re facing robbery charges in Redwood City, California, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for legal support.
Here’s how our team can help you:
- Our attorneys will meticulously review all evidence related to your case, including police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements. We will also review any discovery turned over by the prosecution to look for inconsistencies in their case.
- We ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld throughout the legal process. This includes preventing unlawful searches, safeguarding your right to remain silent, and ensuring you receive fair treatment during interrogations and court proceedings.
- Our experienced lawyers will work with prosecutors to negotiate favorable plea agreements. This can result in reduced charges or lighter sentences, helping to minimize the impact on your future and avoid a lengthy trial.
- Understanding how California’s three-strikes law applies to robbery charges is crucial. We will explain how strikes work and develop strategies to prevent a strike from being added to your record.
For help with a robbery charge in Redwood City, California, we’re here for you. Contact Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, to schedule a free consultation with a Redwood City robbery attorney.
Overview of Robbery in California
In California, robbery is defined as the theft of someone else’s property through the use of fear or force.
To convict someone of robbery under California law, prosecutors must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- You took property that does not belong to you, with that property being in another person’s possession.
- The property was taken directly from the person or their immediate presence against their will.
- The taking involved the use of fear or force to seize the property or prevent the victim from resisting.
- There was an intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property or of its significant value.
Understanding these elements is essential for distinguishing robbery from other types of theft and ensuring that you know how to defend yourself if you’re facing charges.
First-Degree vs. Second-Degree Robbery
In California, robbery is divided into first-degree and second-degree offenses. First-degree robbery is charged when the victim is a driver or passenger of certain fare-earning vehicles; is inside a home, inhabited vessel, trailer, or building; or is using or has just used an ATM. Any robbery that does not fit into these specific situations will be charged as second-degree robbery.
What Are the Penalties For Robbery in Redwood City, California?
Robbery in Redwood City, California, carries serious legal consequences that vary depending on the circumstances of the crime.
First-Degree Robbery
The penalties for first-degree robbery include formal probation; 3, 4, or 6 years in state prison; and fines up to $10,000. If the robbery is committed by two or more people in an inhabited structure, the prison sentence can increase to 3, 6, or 9 years.
Second-Degree Robbery
Any robbery that does not meet the criteria for first-degree robbery is classified as second-degree. The punishments for second-degree robbery include formal probation; 2, 3, or 5 years in state prison; and fines up to $10,000.
Robbery with Multiple Victims
When a robbery involves multiple victims, each instance of theft is treated as a separate count of robbery. This means that the more victims involved, the more severe the charges and penalties can become, multiplying the potential consequences for the defendant.
Sentence Enhancements
Certain factors can lead to increased penalties for robbery. If substantial physical injury is caused during the robbery, the sentence is increased by 3 to 6 years. Using a firearm during a robbery results in a 10-year prison sentence. If the gun is fired, the penalty rises to 20 years, and causing great bodily injury or death with a firearm during a robbery can lead to a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
Three Strikes Law
Under California’s Three Strikes Law, robbery is considered a “strike offense.” A conviction for robbery as a strike doubles the sentence length for any subsequent felony charges. Accumulating three strike convictions results in a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
Understanding these penalties is crucial for anyone facing robbery charges in Redwood City.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Arrested For Robbery?
Being arrested for robbery is a serious matter, but there are several defenses that may apply depending on the details of your case.
Some of the most common include:
- Mistaken Identity: You may argue that you were wrongly identified as the person who committed the robbery, providing evidence such as alibis or witness testimonies to support your claim. You can also show that you don’t have the stolen property in your possession, supporting the claim that you weren’t involved in the crime.
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that you did not have the intention to permanently deprive the victim of their property can weaken the prosecution’s case against you.
- Insufficient Evidence: Arguing that the prosecution does not have enough credible evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt can lead to an acquittal..
- Violation of Rights: If law enforcement conducted an unlawful search without a proper warrant, any evidence obtained can be suppressed, meaning the prosecution won’t be able to show that you had anything stolen in your possession. This can lead to dismissed charges or an acquittal.
Understanding these potential defenses is crucial if you’re facing robbery charges. Consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney in San Mateo County can help you determine the best approach to protect your rights.
Facing robbery charges in Redwood City is a life-altering experience. Having a skilled attorney by your side is essential to navigate the legal system and protect your rights. We understand the severe consequences that come with robbery charges and are committed to helping you achieve a fair resolution. Make sure you speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. Contact Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, to schedule a free consultation with a Redwood City robbery attorney.