Fairfax Armed Robbery Lawyer

In Virginia, robbery is defined as a theft that is accomplished by violence, force, or the threat of serious bodily harm. Armed robbery with a firearm is an additional felony charge. This means a defendant could be convicted for both robbery and the use of a firearm and the prison sentences will be consecutive. If you have been arrested for armed robbery, consult with a Fairfax armed robbery lawyer. An accomplished robbery attorney could build a defense and advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process.

Prosecutor’s Burden of Proof

In Virginia, to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that an individual is guilty of an armed robbery charge, a prosecutor must show that the individual who took the property of another without their consent did so by force or the threat of serious bodily harm. For the use of a weapon charge, the prosecution team must also show that beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant used a weapon during the commission of the robbery. Given the severity of an armed robbery charge, when seeking a criminal defense attorney in Fairfax, an individual should look for a Fairfax armed robbery lawyer who has experience handling these types of cases. These are serious allegations that carry extremely severe penalties. A seasoned attorney will be able to navigate through the Virginia sentencing guidelines and the process for the best way to deal with the felony charges.

Armed Robbery Consequences

Armed robbery in Fairfax is a felony offense and it carries significant ramifications. An individual convicted of the charge will be sentenced by a judge in Circuit Court who will consult the Virginia guidelines to determine the sentence. The guidelines for an armed robbery in Virginia will always recommend a period of incarceration based on the type of weapon that was used and whether there were injuries or threatened injuries. A robbery offense that involved a firearm will be taken much more serious. Also, the criminal record the defendant may have will factor in the sentencing. Following a guilty verdict, the jury is instructed to recommend a sentence of between five years and life. Many judges in Virginia are reluctant to reduce or suspend any portion of a jury recommendation.

Other consequences for armed robbery include fines, probation, loss of employment, right to own a firearm. This is why it is essential for defendants to seek the services of a Fairfax armed robbery lawyer.

Call an Experienced Fairfax Armed Robbery Attorney

A person charged with armed robbery should consider hiring a criminal defense attorney because they need a legal professional to represent their interests and guide them through the legal process to potentially reach the best outcome possible. A Fairfax armed robbery lawyer could be an important advocate for you throughout the legal process. A defense attorney could leverage their experience in trying to gain an advantage over prosecutors by negotiating with them in serious cases. If you are facing armed robbery charges, contact a well-established lawyer right away. The sooner an attorney is contacted, the sooner they can begin building a defense.