Arizona treats robbery as a serious crime and charges it as a felony. Robbery is different from theft and burglary in that it involves taking a person’s belongings against their will by force or threat of force. This may include using a weapon, making threats of bodily harm, or using other means of coercion. If convicted of robbery, a person will be sentenced to time in state prison, will be fined heavily, and will lose certain constitutional rights permanently. If you are facing such charges then it is important to consult with an attorney immediately. Our Phoenix criminal defense lawyer is ready to assist you. Contact us today.
Phoenix defense attorney protecting Maricopa County residents charged with aggravated and armed robbery
Arizona divides robbery cases into three types. A defendant in our state will face one of three charges. These are:
- Robbery
- Aggravated Robbery
- Armed Robbery
“Robbery” occurs when one takes another’s possessions through threat or force. This crime is committed by a single individual and does not involve the use of a weapon. Simple robbery is charged as a Class Four felony and carries a sentence of eighteen months to three years in prison. “Aggravated robbery” involves at least one accomplice and involves a crime with more planning. This offense is charged as a Class Three felony and is punishable by a sentence of two to seven years in prison. Finally, “armed robbery,” the most serious of these offenses, involves using a deadly weapon or an object that could be perceived as deadly such as a toy gun. This offense is charged as a Class Two felony and carries a sentence of 4 to 10 years in prison. All three types of Robbery charges can be alleged as “dangerous”, making the sentences much more severe (from a minimum of 4 years to a maximum of 21 years).
As with other felony offenses, the above mentioned robbery cases will begin with an Indictment or a Criminal Complaint. Once the prosecutor has shown probable cause, and initiates the felony case, then an arraignment will be held. A defendant who is not in custody may demand a speedy trial which will be required to begin within 180 days of the arraignment. Hiring an attorney who understands the possible defenses to such a charge is critical to one’s defense.
Bretton Barber is a Phoenix area attorney protecting the rights of those charged with aggravated or armed robbery. Bretton will immediately obtain all police reports and witness statements before visiting the scene of the incident. If evidence was obtained through an unlawful search and seizure then he will file the appropriate suppression motions. Also, as cases of this type often hinge on eyewitness identification, Bretton will file a request that an in-court identification not be allowed. Our attorney will ensure that one knows what to expect from the process and at trial. Call our lawyer today. In addition to Phoenix we represent defendants in other Maricopa County cities such as Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Gilbert. We also assist Pima County residents in Tucson.
Phoenix attorney treating those accused of robbery with the respect their case deserves
One of the largest complaints clients have regarding their attorneys is that they do not communicate well regarding the status of a case. Bretton actively seeks to change this attorney stereotype and values being accessible to his clients whenever they need him. He gives clients his personal cell phone number so that they can call or text him with questions. He makes himself available outside of business hours and continuously provides updates regarding one’s case. Bretton knows that if you are being charged with robbery then this a stressful time and you need answers to your legal questions. He will do everything possible to ensure that you understand what is happening with your case and feel comfortable with his defense plan moving forward. Contact his office today.