New Port Richey Robbery Lawyer
Robbery charges in New Port Richey carry severe consequences that can change your life forever. Florida law treats robbery as a serious felony offense, often resulting in lengthy prison sentences and permanent criminal records. When you face these charges, the stakes could not be higher. Your freedom, reputation, and future opportunities hang in the balance. Contact our experienced New Port Richey robbery lawyers today.
How Prosecutors Build Robbery Cases
Law enforcement and prosecutors employ specific strategies to build robbery cases against defendants. They focus heavily on witness identification, often using photo lineups or live lineups that can be unreliable. Physical evidence collection includes fingerprints, DNA samples, and surveillance footage from nearby cameras. Cell phone records and GPS data may also be examined to place suspects at crime scenes.
Prosecutors often rely on circumstantial evidence when direct evidence is limited. They may use possession of stolen property found days or weeks after the alleged crime as evidence of guilt. Social media posts, text messages, and digital communications frequently become part of their case strategy. Police interviews and interrogations are recorded and used to find inconsistencies in statements.
The burden of proof requires prosecutors to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. However, they often present cases based on weak evidence, hoping defendants will accept plea bargains rather than fight the charges in court.
Severe Penalties You Face
Robbery convictions in Florida carry mandatory minimum sentences that judges cannot reduce. First-degree robbery with a firearm requires a minimum of 10 years in prison under the 10-20-Life statute. Even without a weapon, robbery charges can result in up to 15 years in state prison.
Beyond prison time, convicted individuals face lifetime consequences. A felony robbery conviction eliminates many employment opportunities and professional licenses. Housing applications are routinely denied for those with violent crime convictions. Educational financial aid becomes unavailable, limiting future opportunities for personal advancement.
Probation violations can send individuals back to prison for the full sentence term. Sex offender registration may be required if a sexual battery occurred during the alleged robbery. Immigration consequences include deportation for non-citizens, even legal permanent residents.
Potential Defenses Against Robbery Charges
Several defense strategies may apply to your robbery case depending on the specific circumstances. Lack of intent can be a viable defense if you did not intend to permanently deprive the victim of their property. Mistaken identity occurs more frequently than people realize, especially in cases involving multiple suspects or poor lighting conditions.
Self-defense may apply if you were protecting yourself or others from immediate harm. Duress can be a defense if you were forced to commit the alleged crime under threat of serious bodily harm. False accusations sometimes arise from personal disputes or attempts to avoid responsibility for other crimes.
Key defense considerations include:
- Challenging the credibility of witness testimony
- Examining physical evidence for inconsistencies
- Investigating police procedures during arrest and interrogation
- Analyzing surveillance footage for alternate explanations
- Reviewing the chain of custody for evidence
Get Legal Representation Today
Robbery charges demand serious legal representation from New Port Richey robbery attorneys who know how to fight for your rights. Contact King Law Group today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
