Orange County Robbery Lawyer

Aggressive Defense Against Robbery Charges in California 

Being charged with robbery in California is a serious matter that can significantly impact your life. A conviction can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional future, making it critical to have a strong legal advocate. The Law Office of Jacqueline Goodman is a small firm that offers superior legal services. When you turn to Attorney Jacqueline Goodman for your defense, she will personally handle your case from start to finish. That means you can rest assured that a skilled lawyer who thoroughly understands your circumstances is fighting to protect your rights and freedoms. Attorney Goodman will be there to answer any questions you may have or to provide an update on your case.

With her extensive experience and personalized approach, Attorney Goodman is dedicated to crafting a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation, ensuring you have the best chance at a favorable outcome.

Call The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman today at (714) 266-3945 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our robbery attorney in Orange County!

What Is Robbery Under California Law?

According to California Penal Code 211, robbery is defined as taking personal property from another person's possession, either on them or within their immediate presence, using force or fear. To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove the following critical elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. The defendant took property that was in another person’s possession.
2. The property was taken against the victim’s will.
3. The defendant used force or fear to take the property or prevent resistance.
4. The defendant intended to deprive the victim of the property or for an extended period.

Use of Force or Fear

The "use of force or fear" is a critical element of robbery. The law defines "force" as any physical violence used to take the property. At the same time, "fear" involves instilling apprehension in the victim of immediate harm to themselves, their property, their family, or another person. Even the threat of harm can satisfy this requirement.

If you are facing robbery charges, having an attorney who can challenge each element of the offense is essential. Attorney Jacqueline Goodman has extensive experience defending clients against serious felony charges and will work tirelessly to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case. Whether through negotiating reduced charges or seeking a dismissal, she will fight to protect your future. 

What are the Penalties for Robbery in California? 

Robbery charges in California are categorized into two degrees: first-degree and second-degree robbery. The penalties vary depending on the circumstances of the crime and whether any aggravating factors were present during the commission of the offense.

First-Degree Robbery Penalties

First-degree robbery is considered more severe and typically involves situations where the victim was in their home, using or near an ATM, or in a vehicle, such as a taxi or a rideshare. A conviction for first-degree robbery can result in:

• Up to 9 years in state prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• Additional penalties may apply if the robbery involved the use of a firearm, inflicted serious bodily injury on the victim, or was part of a gang-related activity. In these cases, sentencing enhancements can add significant time to your sentence, potentially leading to life imprisonment in extreme circumstances.

Second-Degree Robbery Penalties

Second-degree robbery applies to all other robbery offenses that do not meet the criteria for first-degree robbery. A conviction for second-degree robbery can lead to:

• Up to 5 years in state prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• While second-degree robbery carries less severe penalties than first-degree, it remains a felony and will leave a lasting mark on your criminal record.

Other Consequences of a Robbery Conviction

In addition to the formal penalties, a robbery conviction can result in collateral consequences such as:

• Probation and parole restrictions
• Loss of the right to own firearms
• Difficulty securing employment or housing
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

With so much at stake, it is essential to have a skilled attorney who understands California's robbery laws and sentencing guidelines on your side.

Contact The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman today to schedule a FREE case evaluation!