Robbery Defense

Texas Robbery Defense Attorneys in Houston:

Robbery, in essence, is a crime that combines elements of theft and assault. Robbery is a very serious charge and can gravely affect your freedom and your employment aspirations. When you have the law firm of Walter J. Pink & Associates fighting for you, one of the greatest teams of Houston Robbery attorneys, you can rest assured that your freedom will be fought for with the utmost veracity.

Defining Robbery in Houston, Texas

When an individual takes something directly from another person, this is considered Robbery in Texas and can be found in the Texas Penal Code (TPC) § 29.02 which states, in part:

1. A Person commits an offense if, in the course of committing theft as defined in Chapter 31 and with intent to obtain or maintain control of the property, he:
   1. Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another; or
   2. Intentionally or knowingly threatens or places another in fear of imminent bodily injury or death.

A robbery does not have to be an excessive show of force or aggression, a simple shove right before, after, and/or during the taking of another’s possession can be considered a robbery. Furthermore, threats, words, or even simple gestures can meet the threshold to be charged with robbery. The use of force can be exhibited right before, during the commission of, or right after/in flight from the unlawful taking. 

Types of Robbery in Houston, Texas

Robbery

A simple robbery is defined above and can be found in the TPC § 29.02. A robbery is generally classified as a felony of the second (2nd) degree. A 2nd-degree felony carries with it a punishment range of 2-20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and/or fines up to $10,000. Furthermore, restitution may be ordered for the items that were taken which can add to the already exhaustive costs of being charged with a robbery. 

Aggravated Robbery

A more serious form of robbery is called an Aggravated robbery and can be found in the Texas Penal Code (TPC) § 29.03 which states, in part:

1. A person commits an offense if he commits a robbery as denied in Section 29.02, and he:
1. Causes serious bodily injury to another:
2. Uses or exhibits a deadly weapon
3. Causes bodily injury to another person or threatens or places another person in fear of imminent bodily injury or death, if the other person is:
1. 65 years of age or older; or
2. A disabled person

For a robbery to be enhanced into an aggravated robbery one of the following must happen: using or exhibiting a deadly weapon, causing serious bodily injury, and/or injuring or threatening a person who is over 65 years old or disabled. Aggravated robbery is considered a felony of the first (1st) degree. A deadly weapon is anything that is designed, used, made, or adapted with the intent to use and is capable of causing serious bodily injury or death. With this description, a pencil or even a pillow could be considered deadly depending upon how the item was used and/or adapted. 

Potential Consequences of a Robbery Conviction

The repercussions of a robbery conviction in Texas are severe:

1. Robbery: Classified as a second-degree felony, it can result in a prison sentence ranging from 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
2. Aggravated Robbery: Considered a first-degree felony, penalties can include a prison sentence ranging from 5 to 99 years or life imprisonment, along with a potential fine of up to $10,000.

The Role of a Houston Robbery Defense Attorney

Facing robbery charges in Texas requires the mastery of a skilled defense attorney.

1. Case Evaluation: A seasoned attorney can assess the specifics of your case, identifying potential defense strategies and weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
2. Evidence Analysis: From surveillance footage to witness testimonies, an attorney can scrutinize every piece of evidence, ensuring that your rights are upheld.
3. Legal Defense Strategy: Crafting a robust defense strategy is crucial. This could involve arguing mistaken identity, lack of intent, or even challenging the credibility of witnesses.
4. Court Representation: In the courtroom, a defense attorney advocates on behalf of the accused, presenting a counter-narrative to the prosecution's claims.

In Conclusion

Robbery charges in Texas carry profound legal implications. Understanding the nature of the offense, potential penalties, and the importance of brilliant legal representation is essential. With the guidance of a dedicated Texas robbery defense attorney, individuals can navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they receive a fair and just trial.

If you or a loved one are accused of any of the crimes listed on this page, or any crime at all, your life can be irrevocably changed, your liberties stripped, and your pursuit of happiness hindered. For these reasons, you and your family can not just trust anyone with such a serious life-altering matter. At Walter J. Pink & Associates, we have received dismissals for our clients in Houston, Harris County, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Fort Bend County, Pearland, Brazoria County, Galveston, Galveston County, Austin, Travis County, Dallas, Dallas County, Amarillo, Lubbock, Montgomery County, and can fight for you anywhere else in this great state of Texas. Call our Houston robbery defense attorneys today!

Remember, if you or a loved one has been accused of a criminal offense, it’s important not to speak with anyone, especially the police or investigators, until you have contacted our office. At the law firm of Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC, you can rest assured your good name and best interests are in good hands! Call us immediately to set up a free consultation and allow us to use our vast knowledge, mental tools, and legal weapons to save your freedom, save your right to pursue happiness, and save your life. The Law Firm For Your Future. 713-664-6651.