Robbery Defense Attorneys in Tacoma, WA

Providing Aggressive Legal Representation to Fight Robbery Charges

If you have been charged with robbery, you are likely frightened and uncertain about the future. A robbery conviction will brand you as a convicted felon, making it challenging for you to obtain gainful employment, vote, hold professional licenses, and receive public benefits. Additionally, you could be sentenced to serve time in prison and be ordered to pay steep fines.

If you have been charged with robbery, it is essential to hire an experienced attorney immediately. Only a qualified attorney can build a solid defense strategy. South Sound Law Group is a law firm dedicated to providing clients with aggressive legal representation to fight felony charges. Contact our Tacoma law office today to schedule a free case evaluation, which will enable us to determine the best legal options for you.

How is Robbery Charged in Washington State?

Washington law categorizes robbery charges as either first-degree or second-degree offenses. Law enforcement authorities consider several aggravating factors, including whether a deadly weapon was used, if anyone suffered bodily injury, and if the crime involved a financial institution.

Robbery in the First Degree

Robbery in the first degree is charged as a Class A felony. Usually, it involves the use or display of a deadly weapon, the infliction of bodily injury, or the robbery of a financial institution. A conviction for a first-degree offense can result in a lengthy prison sentence. First-time offenders can be sentenced to months or years in prison, and repeat offenders can face life in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. Under the state’s three-strikes law, a third conviction for first-degree robbery can result in offenders being sentenced to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Robbery in the Second Degree

Robbery in the second degree is a Class B felony with less severe penalties than a first-degree offense but still severe. An individual may be charged with robbery in the second degree if they took property by force, violence, or intimidation but did not use a weapon to commit the crime, cause bodily injury, or target a financial institution. Robbery in the second degree is punishable by a maximum 10-year prison sentence and a $20,000 fine, and a third conviction can result in life imprisonment.

Can a Robbery Attorney Negotiate to Have Charges Reduced or Dismissed?

Because robbery involves taking personal property by force, Washington prosecutors pursue charges aggressively in the interest of public safety.

One of the primary benefits of hiring a robbery attorney is their ability to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce or dismiss the charges. When you hire an attorney to defend you in a robbery case, their first step will be to examine the state’s evidence. Based on their findings, defense lawyers often point out inconsistencies in the case and file motions, arguing that evidence should be excluded or the case dismissed.

In many robbery cases, the strength of the case rests on witness testimony. If witnesses are unwilling to cooperate, and the prosecution feels that its case is weak, it may be more open to negotiating a plea deal.

Sometimes, a plea deal involves dropping or reducing charges to allow for lighter sentencing. It is worth noting that many robbery cases are settled out of court through negotiations between defense lawyers and prosecutors, as plea deals help avoid the time and expense of a trial. 

What are Common Legal Defenses Attorneys Use in Robbery Cases?

One of the most crucial aspects of criminal law is developing a robust defense strategy to counter charges. A criminal defense attorney has several legal tools to fight against charges, negotiate a plea deal, or defend their client if the case proceeds to trial.

Lack of Evidence

A common criminal defense strategy is to challenge the state’s evidence. Often, police and prosecutors are overzealous and do not have all the facts when they decide to pursue charges. Because the prosecution has the burden of proof in robbery cases, a knowledgeable attorney may be able to argue that the case lacks evidence and should be dismissed.

Lack of Intent

Based on the evidence, a defense attorney may be able to argue that their clients did not intend to deprive the victim of their property. When arguing a lack of intent, an attorney may also be able to demonstrate that the defendant did not use force or intimidation during the incident.

Mistaken Identity

If witnesses are unsure about who committed the robbery or if their statements are inconsistent, a well-trained attorney may be able to argue that the case lacks merit and should be dismissed.

Alibi Defense

One of the most effective defense strategies is to find witnesses who can testify that the defendant was not present during the robbery. A strong alibi mayresult in the charges being dropped because the state believes it cannot prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Does Your Robbery Attorney Have the Skill It Takes to Help Me Win My Case?

At South Sound Law Group, we understand that clients charged with a serious theft offense, such as robbery, are concerned about protecting their freedom and reputation and avoiding a criminal record. Our attorneys have a proven track record in Pierce County for helping clients facing felony charges.

When we agree to take your case, our first step will be to thoroughly evaluate the state’s case. Our legal team has comprehensive experience crafting custom defense strategies to provide clients with positive outcomes. We aim to have your charges dropped or dismissed without requiring a trial. However, if the case goes to trial, we will utilize our years of experience to fight to try and have you found not guilty.

If you have been charged with a criminal offense, contact our Tacoma law firm today at 253-465-2722 to schedule a free case evaluation with a skilled robbery attorney who will assess your specific legal needs.