Robbery is a very serious crime in Virginia, and if convicted, the consequences could be life-altering. A conviction could mean years in prison, steep fines, and a permanent felony record that limits future opportunities. If you are facing these allegations, you should not try to handle them alone. A Richmond robbery lawyer can stand between you and the full force of the Commonwealth’s case. Protecting your rights and ensuring you have a fair chance in court is our entire business.
At Ashwell & Ashwell, our theft defense attorneys know the stakes are high. We have the experience, skill, and determination to challenge robbery charges from every angle. When your freedom and reputation are at risk, don’t go it alone. We are prepared to pursue every option available to achieve the best possible outcome.
Robbery is prosecuted under Code of Virginia § 18.2-58, which defines the offense as taking property directly from another by force, intimidation, or threat. Robbery is classified as a felony, with sentences ranging from five years to the possibility of life in prison, depending on circumstances.
If convicted of robbery, you not only face the possibility of incarceration but also being labeled a violent felon. A conviction affects far more than your sentence: employment opportunities may vanish, professional licenses can be jeopardized, and housing applications often become more difficult. In addition, the long-term effects on education or future career paths can be as serious as the legal penalties themselves. With so much at risk, working with one of our attorneys, who is familiar with robbery cases in Richmond, can help ensure that every aspect of your case is fully and competently addressed.
Most robbery prosecutions begin in the General District Court for preliminary hearings. That hearing is very important because it is often the first opportunity for your attorney to test the evidence, question the strength of eyewitness accounts and challenge the basis for the arrest. At the preliminary stage, the Commonwealth must show probable cause (reasonable ground to suppose that a charge of criminal conduct is well founded).
Should the Commonwealth show probable cause, your case will move to the Circuit Court and be scheduled for trial. Important legal procedures may be necessary prior to a trial. The process may involve pretrial motions, plea negotiations, or preparation for a jury trial.
Our experienced Richmond attorneys understand how these local courts operate, including the tactics prosecutors typically employ in robbery cases, and the procedures judges follow when ruling on motions. Our local knowledge can be invaluable when shaping your defense plan.
A robbery conviction becomes part of your permanent record, which can affect:
These collateral impacts mean that the outcome of your case is about more than time served. An effective defense is about avoiding conviction and preserving as many opportunities as possible for your future. A skilled robbery attorney from our Richmond team could consider both immediate and long-term concerns when advising you about your options.
Robbery cases are among the most serious criminal matters prosecuted in Virginia, but an accusation is not the same as a conviction. The right criminal defense team could expose weaknesses in the state’s case, explore alternatives to incarceration, and fight to safeguard your future.
If you are facing these charges, do not wait to get the help you need. Contact a Richmond robbery lawyer at Ashwell & Ashwell today to schedule a free and confidential consultation
