Zealous Legal Allies To Defend You In Robbery Cases
In Maryland, robbery is the taking of property from another by force or threat of force. Armed robbery is where a dangerous weapon, such as a handgun, was used in the commission of a robbery. It is a felony that carries a maximum sentence of 15 years. Armed robbery carries a potential sentence of 20 years.
When a person thinks about a robbery, it’s not unusual to envision a scenario where a person in a mask, holding a gun, demands money or property from a hapless victim. While that scenario is indeed an armed robbery, it is not the most common type of robbery. A more common type is where a group of kids assault another youth and take his phone or other items of value. Add in the fact that one of these youths was holding a large branch, and now all the kids are charged with armed robbery because a large tree branch can be viewed as a deadly weapon. In short, what constitutes robbery can vary depending upon the facts of each case. It should be clear that armed robbery is not limited to using a gun or knife in the commission of a robbery.
Building A Solid Defense
There are many defenses to robbery. The most common involves the identification of the actual perpetrator. Perhaps the robbery happened so quickly that the alleged victim did not have an opportunity to actually see who assaulted them and took their property. Police officers also routinely use show-ups as a means of identification. A show-up is an identification procedure in which the police present a single suspect to an eyewitness and then ask them if the suspect is the perpetrator.
Unduly suggestive show-ups can be grounds for excluding the witness’ identification. Further, when several individuals are charged with a robbery, a prosecutor has to prove that each participated in the robbery or conspired to rob the victim. Thorough cross-examinations of the state’s witnesses can lead to reasonable doubt, and that’s all you need to get an acquittal.
We, the lawyers at Ortega Law, LLC, have the experience and determination to vigorously represent you before the courts in Anne Arundel County in complex criminal issues. We help you understand your rights and how we can tackle the charges that you currently face. We know what is at stake and will strive to ensure we fight for you.
Contact Us Today For A Free Consultation
Call our Pasadena office at Ortega Law, LLC, to schedule your appointment and discuss how we can help. We also have a secure online form to leave your contact information and a brief description of your concerns. Your consultation is confidential.