Experienced Lawyers on Robbery in York & Lancaster, PA
Seek Prompt Representation
If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with robbery, it is important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. An experienced Lancaster robbery lawyer such as Michael V. Marinaro can carefully examine the police report and any witness statements to develop an effective defense that limits your exposure to the consequences of a conviction. With a decade of experience as a forensic chemist, Marinaro has developed robust plans of defense and approaches to the difficult situation you may find yourself in when accused of robbery.
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
Physical force does not have to be involved in an offense for robbery charges to be raised; the threat or implication of a threat to cause fear is sufficient. This nuance can be difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with the minute details of legal language, which is why it is so critical for you to have legal counsel at your side.
Robbery Vs. Burglary
Often, popular culture confuses the terms robbery and burglary, using them interchangeably. However in Pennsylvania, these are two very distinct offenses.
Robbery requires either the use or threat of force to take another person’s property. Whether that force results in bodily or serious bodily injury can significantly change the penalties following a conviction. These penalties can include jail time, fines, restitution, community service, or probation. As your lawyer, it is our goal to limit your exposure to these consequences and move you toward a beneficial resolution in the most efficient manner possible. We often negotiate with the prosecutor’s office to reach a plea agreement or reduction in charges. Contact us today to discuss your situation in greater detail.
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!
Don’t Give Up Without A Fight. Call Today.
If you have questions regarding robbery, contact Marinaro Law by calling 717-397-7055, toll-free 866-614-6520, or by completing our online contact form. Our office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, but we offer evening and weekend appointments upon request. We offer services in English or Spanish and provide free consultations in some criminal defense cases.
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