In North Carolina, robbery is a serious crime that involves taking another’s property, usually directly off their person, by using force or the threat of force. Because of this, robbery is considered a theft crime as well as a violent crime and is taken very seriously. If you are facing robbery charges, it is imperative that you work with a Charlotte criminal defense attorney at the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, to ensure that your rights are respected.
At the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, we have decades of experience creating compelling defenses on behalf of clients charged with serious theft crimes, including robbery offenses. We command an in-depth understanding of the best robbery defenses and how to use them to ensure that your arrest has as little impact on your future as possible.
What is Robbery in North Carolina?There are two main robbery charges in North Carolina: Common law robbery and robbery with firearms or other dangerous weapons. The difference between the two charges is simple; the more serious offense involves the use of a dangerous weapon.
Common law robbery is a less serious felony because the crime doesn’t involve the use or threatened use of a weapon. For example, approaching someone in the street and demanding they hand over their purse would be a common law robbery. However, if you placed your hand in your jacket pocket, giving the impression you were armed, you’d likely be charged with robbery with firearms.
Prosecutors will often charge robbery along with the underlying theft crime, as well as whatever violent crime they believe applies. For example, it is common for someone charged with robbery to also face charges of larceny and assault.
What is the Punishment for a North Carolina Robbery Conviction?Regardless of the type of robbery you are convicted of, you’ll end up with a felony on your record. Robbery with a firearm or other dangerous weapon is a Class D felony. This is important because Class D felonies are the lowest level of felony on the sentencing chart that requires the court to impose a jail sentence. Common law robbery is considered a Class G felony, which can still carry the possibility of a jail sentence but doesn’t require the court to include incarceration as a part of the sentence.
The distinction between robbery charges is important. Not only are you looking at more time when a weapon is involved, but you become eligible for the habitual violent felon statute on a second conviction. The habitual violent felon statute requires the judge to impose a life sentence, which makes it imperative to aggressively defend against these charges.
There are many consequences to NC robbery charges, and prison time is always a reality. That being the case, you’ll need the help of an NC criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights—as well as your future. At the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, we have experience successfully representing clients charged with common law robbery and robbery with a firearm.
Have You Been Charged With Robbery in Charlotte, NC?If you’ve recently been arrested and charged with robbery, which Charlotte robbery lawyer you choose to represent you will be one of the most important decisions you make throughout the process. The Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, focuses on pursuing a favorable outcome by avoiding a felony conviction whenever possible. Our criminal defense lawyers are dedicated advocates who will always have your best interest at heart and will fight to make sure you are provided with the strong defense you need, deserve, and are entitled to. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with a Charlotte robbery defense attorney, reach out to the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, by calling 705-405-2580 to schedule a free consultation. You can also connect with one of our attorneys by completing our secure online contact form.