Fort Worth Robbery Lawyer
In Fort Worth and throughout Texas, robbery refers to forcibly taking someone’s property while injuring them or placing them in fear of being injured. Robbery is considered a violent crime and can carry severe consequences. If you are facing robbery charges, it’s imperative to have a Fort Worth robbery lawyer evaluate your case as soon as possible. Our experienced criminal attorneys can help you formulate a defense to maximize your chances of a positive outcome.
What is Robbery vs. Aggravated Robbery?
Robbery: Under Texas Penal Code Section 29.02, a person commits robbery if while committing a theft he or she: intentionally, knowingly or recklessly cause bodily injury to another or intentionally or knowingly threatens or places another in fear of imminent bodily injury or death.
Aggravated Robbery: Texas Penal Code §29.03 defines aggravated robbery as a robbery that inflicts serious bodily harm, involves the use of a deadly weapon, or causes bodily injury or fear of bodily harm or death to a disabled or elderly person.
Under Texas law, an elderly individual is someone 65 years of age or older. Disabled individuals are defined as those having physical, cognitive, or developmental disabilities who cannot defend themselves from harm. Bodily injury means any pain.
Simply put, robbery is elevated to aggravated robbery if the defendant used or displayed a deadly weapon during the attempted theft. Aggravated robbery is a more serious offense than robbery and it that carries harsher penalties than robbery.
Aggravated Robbery is considered a “3G” offense in Texas, so any prison sentence will require a person to serve at least half the term before applying for parole, as opposed to a quarter term.
What Are Examples of Robberies?
Robberies are common in Fort Worth and across the state. Typical examples include:
- Holding up a Convenience Store;
- Home Invasion;
- Car Jacking;
- Mugging; and
- Purse Snatching.
What is the Punishment for Robbery and Aggravated Robbery?
Both robbery and aggravated robbery are felonies. Individuals who are convicted of robbery face up to 20 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.
If convicted of aggravated robbery, a person faces from five years to up to life in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine. A seasoned robbery lawyer in Fort Worth can explain the full range of penalties that may apply to your case.
What are Potential Defenses for Robbery and Aggravated Robbery?
For a charge of robbery to be proven against the accused, the prosecutor must prove that the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly threatened the alleged victim or caused them to fear of bodily harm or death. Prosecutors are required to prove robbery charges beyond a reasonable doubt, which can be a challenging burden depending on the facts and circumstances of the case.
A skilled Fort Worth attorney could argue that the defendant lacked the knowledge or intent to commit the robbery. In some cases, a lawyer may be able to argue that no injury was inflicted on the other party and that they were not placed in fear of physical harm. When choosing a Fort Worth robbery attorney, experience is key.
Robbery Arrests in Fort Worth This Week
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Hire a Fort Worth Robbery Attorney to Handle Your Case
Not only could a robbery conviction result in prison time and fines, but you could also lose the right to carry a firearm, vote or work in certain industries. Our Fort Worth robbery lawyers will exhaust all avenues to fight your robbery charge and obtain the most favorable outcome. Call today at (817) 203-2220 to schedule a free consultation or reach out online.
