Experienced Robbery Crimes Lawyers in York & Lancaster, PA
Take the First Step Toward a Strong Defense
Being accused of robbery places your future at risk. You may feel uncertain about what comes next or how to respond in a way that protects your rights. Without the right guidance, the legal system can seem stacked against you. That’s where an experienced robbery defense lawyer becomes essential. Michael V. Marinaro brings years of courtroom experience and a background in forensic chemistry to every case. He takes a detailed approach to reviewing evidence, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s claims, and building a defense that reflects the facts of your situation.
Robbery Laws in Pennsylvania
According to Chapter 37 of Title 18 in the Pennsylvania Statutes, robbery is defined as the commission of theft that also involves one or more of the following:
- Inflicting bodily injury on another person
- Threatening to inflict bodily injury
- Causing another person to fear imminent injury
- Committing or threatening to commit a first or second-degree felony
- Removing property through physical force
Robbery charges don’t always involve physical violence. Simply implying a threat is often enough to bring serious charges. That legal distinction can be easy to miss if you’re not familiar with how Pennsylvania law defines robbery. This is why having a knowledgeable robbery defense lawyer on your side is so important. The right legal counsel can help you understand the charges, protect your rights, and avoid mistakes that could cost you your future.
Robbery vs. Burglary
Robbery and burglary are distinct offenses under Pennsylvania law. Confusing the two can affect how your case is handled.
Robbery involves taking property through force or threats. Penalties increase significantly if it results in injury or risk of serious harm. Our robbery lawyers work to reduce your exposure by challenging the evidence and protecting your rights. An experienced aggravated robbery lawyer is essential to your defense when serious harm is alleged.
Burglary requires unlawful entry into a building, regardless of whether a theft occurs or not. Burglary often goes in hand with robbery, but this term only refers to entry into a structure. At Marinaro Law, we can carefully examine your situation and provide honest answers and clear direction regarding your case.
Potential Penalties for Robbery Convictions
In Pennsylvania, robbery is a felony offense. This carries hefty penalties if convicted, which can be even more severe depending on the degree of the felony. For example, if an alleged robbery involves the theft of a controlled substance, this would be a first-degree felony which carries harsher penalties:
- 3rd Degree Felony: up to 7 years imprisonment
- 2nd Degree Felony: Up to 10 years imprisonment
- 1st Degree Felony: Up to 20 years imprisonment
Depending on the criminal history of the alleged perpetrator, these punishments may be more or less severe. These penalties are outlined in section 1103 of Title 18 of the Pennsylvania statutes. Knowing these potential damages and penalties should tell you how serious these charges are, and how life-changing they can be. Don’t let your life be changed for the worse!
Have Questions About a Robbery Charge?
To discuss your situation, contact Marinaro Law at 717-397-7055, toll-free 866-614-6520, or fill out our online contact form. Our office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with evening and weekend appointments available upon request. We provide legal services in English and Spanish and offer free consultations in select criminal defense matters.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Robbery Charges
If you’re facing a robbery accusation, understanding the law can help you make informed decisions. Below are answers to common questions about robbery charges in Pennsylvania.
What type of crime is robbery?
Robbery is considered a felony in Pennsylvania. It involves using or threatening force to take property from another person. The severity of the charge depends on the level of harm caused or threatened during the incident. A robbery lawyer can help you understand what degree of felony applies to your case and what steps to take next.
What is the minimum punishment for robbery?
In Pennsylvania, robbery can be charged as a first, second, or third-degree felony. The minimum penalty depends on the degree of the charge. A third-degree felony carries up to seven years in prison. When injury or weapons are involved, sentencing becomes more severe. Speaking with a robbery defense lawyer early in the process can help reduce your exposure to the harshest penalties.
What is the difference between burglary and robbery?
Robbery involves direct interaction with a person and includes force or the threat of force. Burglary focuses on unlawful entry into a building, whether or not anyone is present or property is taken. If you’re unsure which charge applies, a robbery crimes lawyer can review your situation and explain the legal distinctions that may affect your case.
Need a Robbery Lawyer in Lancaster?
Robbery charges carry serious risks. If you’ve been accused of armed robbery or facing allegations tied to aggravated robbery, the outcome of your case can impact your future for years to come. Even if no one was harmed, the law takes threats and the use of force very seriously.
That’s why speaking with a trusted robbery defense lawyer right away is essential. At Marinaro Law, we understand how robbery cases are prosecuted in Pennsylvania. Whether you’re facing a first-degree felony or multiple charges, an experienced robbery lawyer in Lancaster will closely examine the evidence, explain your options, and prepare a focused defense strategy from day one.
Attorney Michael V. Marinaro has over 30 years of criminal defense experience and a background in forensic science. That combination allows him to break down complex cases and precisely challenge the prosecution’s claims. As a seasoned aggravated robbery lawyer, he prepares every case as if it will go to trial, reviewing all police reports, statements, and forensic details.
Whether you’re searching for a robbery lawyer near me or need legal help right away, our team is here to provide clarity and direction. Speak with our robbery crimes lawyer today and take the first step toward protecting your rights.
