Hartford Robbery Lawyer

Robberies are some of the most common felony-level cases in the state’s criminal courts. Despite their frequency, many people do not understand Connecticut’s robbery laws. In any event, a robbery charge is a felony that can result in over a year in prison upon conviction.

A Hartford robbery lawyer could help you better understand your charges, develop a strategy tailored to your specific circumstances, and put that strategy into effect in court. At Ruane Attorneys, our team works with people to meet their individual goals and protect their rights.

The Core Concept Behind a Robbery Charge

Most people know it is illegal to forcibly take property from another person. Connecticut General Statute § 53a-133 states that a robbery is a theft that involves the use or threat of force. However, many people do not realize that the penal law describes three different levels of robbery, each with its own definitions and potential penalties for a conviction.

Robbery in the Third Degree

Third-degree robbery under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-136 is the basic version of robbery. This involves a forcible taking of property without any of the aggravating factors present in other versions. This is a class D felony where a conviction can bring one to five years in prison.

Second-Degree Robbery

Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-135, robbery in the second degree also involves taking property through physical force. However, the charges increase in severity if the alleged perpetrator has the aid of an accomplice or displays a weapon. These charges may also result if the robbery occurs in a bank. These class C felony charges can result in up to ten years in prison.

First-Degree Robbery

The most serious version of robbery is outlined under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-134. Robbery in the first degree involves any theft resulting in serious injury to another person. These charges can also apply if anyone involved in the crime uses a firearm or deadly weapon. Convictions here are class B felonies. Penalties may include a sentence of up to 20 years, but all convictions must impose a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison.

People facing any type of robbery charge must take the accusations seriously and work to prevent a conviction. A Hartford lawyer could help explain the various versions of robbery under state law and develop defenses to protect a person’s rights and freedoms.

Contact a Hartford Robbery Attorney Now

If you were charged with any form of robbery, you might be confused and scared. You might not understand why you are facing felony-level charges or know how to fight back against these allegations. A Hartford robbery lawyer could answer your questions and begin working to protect your future.

Every case is unique, and every person enters court with different goals. Whether you aim to get a fair plea deal on a reduced charge to avoid jail time, or you want to fight the charges at trial, Ruane Attorneys could help. We work with clients to meet their goals and protect their rights in court. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.