Robbery
PRACTICE AREAS
Manassas Robbery Lawyer
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys for Armed Robbery Charges in Prince William County, Virginia
Robbery, whether armed or unarmed, is considered a very serious criminal offense in Virginia with penalties to match. The Prince William County robbery defense attorneys from the Manassas Law Group understand the gravity of robbery charges and are dedicated to helping clients fight against such serious criminal allegations.
At the Manassas Law Group, our seasoned criminal defense team is dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the most favorable outcome, drawing on our deep knowledge and experience in Virginia’s criminal justice system to fight on your behalf.
Whether you’re seeking to challenge the charges against you or aiming for a resolution that minimizes potential penalties, the Manassas Law Group is here to stand by your side with resilience and experienced legal representation. Schedule a free consultation with a Manassas robbery lawyer at MLG by calling (703) 361-8246 or completing our online intake form today.
Table of Contents
What is Considered Robbery in Virginia?
In Virginia, robbery is defined as the taking of personal property from another person directly or from the person’s presence by violence or intimidation, with the intent to deprive the owner of that property permanently.
This definition includes a broad range of actions, from physical force or assault to the threat of violence, making the crime a serious felony under Virginia law. The presence of a weapon, such as a firearm or knife, can elevate the severity of the charge to armed robbery.
Unlike theft or larceny, which involve the unlawful taking of property without direct interaction with the victim, robbery is distinguished by its immediate, confrontational nature and the element of fear or force employed to accomplish the theft.
If you’ve been accused of robbery in Virginia, contact our law firm to meet with an experienced Manassas criminal defense attorney today.
Virginia Code 18.2-58
Laws governing robbery in the state of Virginia can be found under Virginia Code § 18.2-58. According to this statute, robbery is when a person takes, with the intent to steal, personal property from another person or presence, directly or by intimidation or force. This statute distinguishes robbery from other forms of theft by emphasizing the element of force or intimidation, making it a more severe offense. A robbery conviction under this code can lead to serious penalties.
What’s Armed Robbery?
Armed robbery is considered a violent crime in Virginia. This is an escalated form of robbery involving the use of a deadly weapon during the commission of the crime. This classification is particularly serious and includes any instance where an individual commits robbery while armed with a gun, knife, or any other object that could reasonably instill fear of harm or death in the victim.
The distinction of being “armed” significantly increases the severity of the offense and, consequently, the penalties upon conviction. Virginia law treats armed robbery as a grave threat to public safety, reflecting the added danger posed to victims and society when a perpetrator uses or even merely possesses a weapon during the act.
Is Armed Robbery a Felony?
Armed robbery is a felony in Virginia due to the use of a weapon and the threat of violence to commit theft. The classification of armed robbery as a felony means that convicted individuals face significant legal consequences, including potentially lengthy prison sentences, large fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Virginia law does not have a separate statute specifically for “armed robbery” but covers robbery under a broader statute that includes the use of a weapon as an aggravating factor that can increase the severity of the penalties. The distinction between armed robbery and other forms of theft lies in the presence of a weapon and the use of force or intimidation, making it a more serious crime than theft or burglary.
How Many Years for Armed Robbery in Virginia?
As mentioned, robbery in Virginia is a felony, though the class of felony (and therefore, the penalties) vary depending on the circumstances of the crime. Generally, a robbery conviction is punishable by a term of imprisonment ranging from five years to life. When a weapon is involved, which elevates the crime to armed robbery, the likelihood of receiving a harsher sentence within that range increases due to the danger and threat to victims.
Sentencing can also be influenced by the use of a firearm during the commission of a robbery. Under Virginia’s use of a firearm in the commission of a felony statute, Virginia Code § 18.2-53.1, the use or display of a firearm during a robbery triggers mandatory minimum sentences that are to be served consecutively with any other sentence.
For the first offense under this statute, there is a mandatory minimum sentence of three years in prison. For a second or subsequent conviction, the mandatory minimum sentence increases to five years.
Class 2 Felony Robbery
In the event a robbery results in serious bodily injury or death, the offender can be charged with a Class 2 felony offense. Due to the nature of this violent crime, the accused can receive a prison sentence of 20 years to life with potential fines costing up to $100,000.
Class 3 Felony Robbery
A robbery offense can result in a Class 3 felony charge if the offender uses or displays a firearm in a threatening manner during the crime. A Class 3 felony conviction can result in a prison sentence between five to 20 years and fines no greater than $100,000.
Class 5 Felony Robbery
If the robbery offense involves physical force but does not result in bodily injury and there was no use or display of a deadly weapon, the crime can result in a Class 5 felony. The potential penalties for a Class 5 felony robbery conviction include a prison sentence of one to ten years and fines of up to $2,500.
Class 6 Felony Robbery
A robbery offense that involves threat or intimidation without a deadly weapon can result in a Class 6 felony conviction. This criminal charge can carry a prison sentence of one to five years and fines up to $2,500.
Virginia Attempted Robbery Sentence
In Virginia, attempted robbery is treated just as harshly as if the crime were actually completed. All robbery offenses are considered felony crimes, including attempted robbery. Even though the crime was not successful, offenders can be charged with a Class 4 felony, which can result in anywhere from two to ten years in prison.
Contact Us
We offer a free case evaluation for new clients seeking criminal defense legal counsel. Call our Prince William County office today. Call 703-361-8246
What is Carjacking?
Carjacking is another violent crime involving the forceful theft of a vehicle directly from its owner or occupant. Typically characterized by threats, intimidation, or the use of physical force, carjacking goes beyond simple theft due to its aggressive nature and the immediate danger it poses to victims. This crime combines elements of robbery and auto theft, as the perpetrator seeks to deprive the rightful owner of their vehicle through coercion or violence.
Due to the inherent risks and the potential for serious injury or trauma to victims, carjacking is treated as a serious offense under the law, often carrying severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
Virginia Code 18.2-58.1
Virginia Code § 18.2-58.1 defines carjacking as the intentional seizure or taking of a motor vehicle directly from a person’s possession by force, intimidation, or threat, with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of their vehicle.
Is Carjacking a Felony?
According to Virginia Code § 18.2-58.1, a carjacking conviction is considered a felony offense that can result in 15 years to life in prison.
Given the violent and aggressive nature of carjacking, Virginia treats this offense with the utmost seriousness. If you’ve been charged with carjacking, it’s crucial to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney from the Manassas Law Group to begin developing your defense today.
Why You Need the Help of an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney for Virginia Robbery Charges
Robbery charges are a serious legal matter and demand the expertise of a seasoned criminal defense lawyer. At the Manassas Law Group, our Virginia criminal defense attorneys understand the severity of such allegations and will work diligently to secure the best possible outcome given the specifics of your case. Your Manassas robbery lawyer will advocate fiercely on your behalf and will work tirelessly to protect your rights throughout the process.
Given what’s at stake, potentially facing years in prison, substantial fines, and the lifelong impact of a felony record, the guidance and representation of a seasoned Manassas theft crime attorney from MLG is indispensable for anyone accused of robbery in Virginia.
Facing Robbery Charges? Call a Prince William County Criminal Defense Lawyer at MLG Today
If you face robbery charges in Prince William County, VA or the surrounding areas, it’s crucial to act quickly and secure an experienced Manassas robbery lawyer for your legal representation. With a deep understanding of the challenges you’re up against and a proven track record of successful outcomes, the Manassas Law Group is ready to provide the aggressive defense strategy you need during this trying time.
Contact a Prince William County criminal defense lawyer at MLG today to ensure your side of the story is heard and to fight for the best possible resolution to your case. Call (703) 361-8246 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned criminal defense attorney today.
