Fighting Theft Crime Charges in Colorado
What is the Difference Between Robbery & Theft in Colorado?
Many confuse robbery and theft, mistakenly using the two terms interchangeably. While both crimes involve taking something that does not belong to you without permission, theft occurs when no other person is present, threatened, or harmed. On the other hand, robbery is when you take something from someone else by threats, intimidation, or force. This means that it is typically seen as a more serious crime than theft, and as such is punished by harsher consequences. For individuals facing such charges, consulting with a theft crime attorney in Denver can provide crucial guidance and representation.
If you are facing charges for robbery, a strong defense may be the only thing keeping you from the following penalties:
- Prison time
- Fines
- Life-long damage to your reputation
Kevin Cahill is a respected robbery lawyer with extensive experience defending criminal charges like these and a proven track record of success. Mr. Cahill can help you fight whatever type of robbery charge you are facing, devising an aggressive defense strategy and defending you fearlessly in court. With his legal counsel, you may be able to have your robbery charges reduced to theft charge or dropped entirely.
Colorado Robbery Charges
Robbery is a form of theft, but involves threat of force and is considered a violent offense. In order for the crime to be considered robbery, the victim must be present during the crime. Colorado has two classes of robbery: simple and aggravated.
Both simple and aggravated robberies are considered to be violent crimes, and require aggressive defense if you want to avoid a lengthy prison sentence and heavy fines. Whether you are charged with simple or aggravated robbery, you need to enlist the aid of a knowledgeable and experienced robbery defense attorney.
Simple Robbery
Simple robbery occurs when someone takes something from someone else using physical force, threats, or intimidation. Robbery is a Class 4 felony, and can result in a prison sentence of up to six years and a fine of up to $500,000.
Aggravated Robbery
Aggravated robbery—sometimes referred to as armed robbery—occurs when the crime is committed with a deadly weapon. If the offender threatens the victim with the weapon, or uses it to strike or otherwise cause harm, this also qualifies as armed robbery. Similarly, if an armed accomplice is present, this may constitute armed robbery even if the offender is not armed. Aggravated robbery is a Class 3 felony and punishable by up to twelve years in prison as well as fines up to $750,000.
Examples of Robbery Crimes
In Colorado, robbery covers a wide range of criminal actions and behaviors. Some of the most common examples of robbery crimes include:
- Purse snatching. It doesn’t require much force to transform a theft into a robbery. If someone manages to take another person’s purse without any force, it may be considered a theft, but if the victim resists in any way, it could be elevated to the violent crime of robbery.
- This type of crime typically involves attacking and robbing someone in a public place.
- In Englewood, Glendale, and other parts of Colorado, carjacking occurs when someone uses violence, threat, intimidation, or force to steal a motor vehicle from another person.
- Robberies against certain people. This type of robbery targets specific types of people, such as cab drivers or people using ATMs.
- Commercial business robberies. This type of robbery occurs when someone uses violence or intimidation to take money, goods, or other property from commercial businesses such as a convenience store, gas station, or supermarket.
Regardless of what type of robbery crime you have been charged with, you are facing consequences that go far beyond lengthy imprisonment and heavy fines. After serving prison time and paying reparations, you may find yourself in a desperate financial situation, and unable to find a job or an apartment because of your criminal record. Convicted felons face a lifetime of hardship and negative social stigma—don’t let this happen to you.
Defenses for Robbery Charges in Colorado
Take the first step towards defending your rights by contacting a skilled criminal lawyer who will use a smart, aggressive defense strategy to help you have your charges reduced or dropped. A Denver robbery lawyer who is experienced in the area of robbery crimes will be familiar with the best strategies for defense, from exposing weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case to demonstrating a violation of constitutional rights.
There are multiples defenses for robbery charges, including:
- Age (no child under 10 can be guilty of a criminal offense)
- Insanity
- Impaired mental condition
- Execution of public duty
- Choice of justification
- Entrapment
- Duress
- Involuntary intoxication
Get the Representation You Need Today From A Robbery Lawyer
Facing a robbery charge is a daunting experience, and you may be feeling stressed, angry, or scared. Kevin Cahill, an experienced robbery lawyer in Denver, understands that, which is why he treats each and every single one of his clients with empathy and respect. Mr. Cahill believes that everyone should have a right to exceptional legal representation, regardless of the charges facing them. You can count on Mr. Cahill to do everything to protect your rights, examining evidence, finding witnesses, and defending you before the judge and jury.
Don’t gamble with your freedom, future, and reputation—call robbery lawyer Mr. Cahill today at (720) 445-9887 or fill out our simple request form online for a free initial consultation.
ATTORNEY KEVIN CAHILL
Denver Defense Lawyer Kevin Cahill never assumes that your case is a lost cause. He is a confident and fearless litigator who refuses to back down when he is fighting to protect the rights of his clients. Regardless of whether you are facing a felony or a misdemeanor, it is vital that you take the charges seriously and seek out legal representation as soon as possible so you can start building your defense. [ ATTORNEY BIO ]
