Robbery is an extremely serious crime that is classified as a felony under Tennessee law. There are mandatory minimum sentences for any robbery conviction. In addition to facing jail time, there are many other collateral consequences of a felony conviction.
If you have been charged with robbery, seek immediate legal help from a Knoxville robbery lawyer at Price Benowitz. Our team of experienced theft attorneys could help protect your rights, build a strong defense, and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
Robbery is a crime that is defined in Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-401. Under the law, a person may be convicted of robbery if the prosecution proves two elements beyond a reasonable doubt. First, that property was taken without the owner’s effective consent and with the intent to deprive the owner of it. Second, that the taking involved violence or putting that person in fear.
Importantly, an actual act of force is not required. An action that causes someone to fear imminent harm can be enough for a robbery charge. For example, threatening harm, even without a weapon, may be considered robbery under the statute. If a weapon is involved, the offense is typically treated more severely and may carry enhanced penalties.
A Knoxville robbery attorney could review the circumstances surrounding your charges and build a strong defense to protect your rights and future.
There are three different types of robbery under state law, which an experienced lawyer in Knoxville could explain in more detail.
Robbery is the offense defined above, and it is a Class C felony. It is punishable by three to 15 years in prison, with three years as a mandatory minimum sentence.
Aggravated robbery involves a deadly weapon or the perpetrator causing serious bodily harm. These charges are elevated due to the circumstances of the alleged crime. It is punishable by eight to 30 years in prison.
Especially aggravated robbery is when there is both a serious injury and a deadly weapon involved in the commission of the alleged crime. The applicable jail sentence is between 15 and 60 years in prison.
Defending against robbery charges requires a strong legal strategy tailored to the facts of your case. Common defenses include:
In some cases, the defense may show that no force or threat of force was used, which can reduce the charge from robbery to a lesser larceny offense. If coercion or duress played a role, with the accused having been forced to commit the act under threat, this may also be a viable defense.
When fighting your robbery charges, a defense attorney in Knoxville may also challenge the credibility of witnesses, the legality of a police search, or other constitutional violations.
Because robbery is a serious felony in Knoxville with long-term consequences, it is crucial to consult a knowledgeable defense lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights. If you are convicted of robbery, you will be sentenced to prison, so you must enlist the help of an experienced professional who could build a strong defense. A lawyer could review the evidence against you and help you decide whether to fight the charges or negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor.
If you have been accused of robbery, do not face the criminal justice system alone. A conviction could lead to years in jail and a permanent criminal record. A Knoxville robbery lawyer is ready to fight for your rights and build a strong defense tailored to your case. The attorneys at Price Benowitz understand what is at stake and could work aggressively to protect your freedom.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
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