Facing armed robbery charges in Georgia can be a daunting experience. The state prosecutes these cases aggressively, and the penalties can drastically alter your life. If you or someone you know is accused of armed robbery, securing a skilled Robbery Lawyer is not just advisable, it’s crucial for navigating the complexities of the legal system and protecting your future.
Severe Penalties for Armed Robbery in Georgia
Georgia law classifies armed robbery as a serious violent felony. A conviction carries a minimum sentence of 10 years and can extend up to 20 years in prison. The severity escalates further under specific circumstances. A second armed robbery conviction in Georgia automatically results in a life sentence without the possibility of parole.
Furthermore, Georgia’s “three strikes” law means that if you have three prior felony convictions from anywhere in the United States, a subsequent armed robbery conviction will also lead to a life sentence without parole, regardless of whether it’s a first or subsequent armed robbery offense. It’s also critical to understand that even being an accomplice can lead to severe consequences. Under Georgia’s “party to a crime” law, individuals involved in any aspect of the robbery – from planning and preparation, such as “casing” a location or acquiring weapons, to actions during or after, like acting as a lookout or driving a getaway car – can be charged and face the same mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison as the principal offender.
Georgia courts are known for handing down significant sentences in armed robbery cases. Recent federal cases highlight this trend, with judges imposing sentences of 39 and 72 years on individuals convicted of armed robbery. As stated by a special agent involved in one such case, these sentences aim to send a clear message about the gravity of armed robbery and its potential for tragic outcomes.
How a Robbery Lawyer Can Build Your Defense
While the penalties for armed robbery in Georgia are harsh, a dedicated robbery lawyer can build a robust defense strategy to protect your rights and explore all possible avenues for a favorable outcome.
One key aspect of defense revolves around the element of intent regarding the weapon. For a conviction of armed robbery, the prosecution must prove that there was intent to use the weapon in the commission of the robbery. A skilled robbery lawyer can argue that the alleged weapon was not intended for use, potentially leading to reduced charges. For instance, the loaded or unloaded status of a firearm can be a significant factor in determining intent.
Another crucial area of defense lies in challenging the identification process. Often, cases rely heavily on eyewitness identification, whether through photo lineups or in-person lineups. If any part of the identification procedure was flawed, suggestive, or violated the accused’s rights, a robbery lawyer can move to suppress this evidence. Successfully challenging identification can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.
Furthermore, the legality of evidence collection is paramount. If law enforcement conducted illegal searches or seizures when obtaining weapons or other evidence, a robbery lawyer will file a motion to suppress evidence. If successful, illegally obtained evidence can be excluded from trial. This could lead to a reduction of charges from armed robbery to simple robbery or larceny, or even a complete dismissal of the case. The primary objective of a competent robbery lawyer is always to pursue the most favorable resolution, including outright dismissal whenever possible.
If you are facing armed robbery charges in Georgia, time is of the essence. Contact a knowledgeable robbery lawyer immediately to begin building your defense and protect your future.
