Defending Yourself Against Robbery Charges in Illinois

 Posted on November 03, 2021 in Violent Crimes

Robbery involves theft with the use or threat of physical force. Illinois takes violent crimes very seriously, and robbery is considered a felony offense. Punishable by years or even decades in prison, it is one of the most harshly penalized crimes in Illinois law. If you or a loved one were accused of robbery or armed robbery, seek guidance from an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer will help you build a strong legal strategy and represent you throughout the criminal proceedings.

Robbery Charges Threaten Your Future

Being convicted of a felony offense will have a dramatic impact on the rest of your life. In addition to significant jail time, you may struggle to find adequate employment and housing for years after your prison sentence has ended. Building a strong defense is crucial to protecting your future.

Exploring Defense Strategies After a Robbery Charge

As with any criminal charge, the best initial defense strategy is to say nothing. Do not answer police questions or submit to any interrogations. Asserting your right to remain silent is one of the best things you can do to aid in your defense. Anything you say can be used as ammunition against you during future legal proceedings.

To secure a conviction for robbery, the prosecution must prove that the defendant stole another party’s property and did so using force or threats to use force. The prosecution may use witness statements, forensic evidence from the alleged crime scene, surveillance camera footage, and other types of evidence when building their case.

A skilled defense attorney may find inconsistencies and flaws in the prosecution’s case that build a strong argument for the defendant’s innocence.  Alternatively, the lawyer may argue an affirmative defense, which means that the defendant committed the act, but did so under extenuating circumstances of some kind.  

In some cases, a defendant is able to take a “plea deal” and avoid harsh criminal penalties. For example, your attorney may help you avoid penalties for aggravated robbery by pleading down to simple robbery.

Contact a Wheaton Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being convicted of a violent crime like robbery has the potential to change your life forever. At Davi Law Group, LLC, our knowledgeable team of DuPage County criminal defense attorneys is committed to protecting your rights and fighting for your future. We can help you build a powerful case against robbery or armed robbery charges.

Call us at 630-580-6373 today for a free, confidential initial case review.

Source: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=072000050K18-1