There are many people who believe that theft, burglary, and robbery are all the same crime. However, they are different and have their own laws regarding the acts. It is important to be aware of these laws and their consequences. When a person commits robbery, it is a serious offense that can result in lifelong burdens as a result. For this reason, if you are someone who has been charged with robbery in the state of New Jersey, it is paramount that you read on and reach out to a seasoned Bergen County criminal defense lawyer from the Law Office of Boyd & Squitieri to learn more about robbery charges, the penalties you may face, and how our legal team can help fight those penalties at every turn. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What is Robbery?
In New Jersey, there are different robbery classifications. This is as follows:
- Robbery in the Second Degree: This is most cases of robberies in New Jersey unless the individual engages in an activity that elevates the crime to the first degree.
- Robbery in the First Degree: This is when, during the commission of the theft, the individual attempts to kill someone or purposefully/attempts to inflict serious bodily injury, commits or threatens to commit any crime of the first or second degree, or is armed with, uses, or threatens to use a weapon.
What are the Penalties?
In the state of New Jersey, the consequences of these charges can vary based on the degree. For example, if you are found guilty of robbery in the second degree, you can face five to 10 years in prison. If you committed a robbery in the first degree, however, you can face anywhere between 10 and 20 years in prison.
What are Possible Defenses Against These Charges?
Those facing robbery charges should retain the services of a skilled criminal defense attorney to protect them from the uncertain future of a criminal record. An attorney can assess the case to discover all possible defenses. Depending on the case, this can include the following defenses:
- Actual innocence
- Entrapment
- Duress
- Lack of positive identification of the suspect
- Police misconduct
These are just some of the potential defenses our firm may use, and ultimately, the right defense will depend on the circumstances of your individual case. If you have any further questions about robbery charges in New Jersey or you need an attorney who can fight for you at every turn, simply contact us today. We are here to defend you and your future.
