Monder Law Group - News
7 Types of Penalties & Enhancements for Robbery
The State of California views robbery as a serious crime. As such, the repercussions and penalties for committing this crime can be severe, depending on the specific circumstances of the offense.
In addition, there is a possibility of several sentence enhancements, based on certain aggravating factors during the commission of the crime, which can increase the severity of the sentence and result in even harsher punishment.
Working with an experienced lawyer specialized in criminal defense, as well as understanding the different types of penalties and enhancements for robbery is essential to developing a strong defense strategy and minimizing the potential consequences of a conviction.
What are the possible penalties for robbery?
The specific penalties for robbery in California depend on several factors, the defining ones being:
- The type of robbery committed;
- Utilization of a weapon during the commission of the crime;
- Injuries or death that occurred as a result of the crime;
- Other aggravating factors.
Base Penalties
California law defines several different types of robberies and each leads to a prison sentence, depending on the circumstances of the crime, as follows:
- First-degree robbery: up to 9 years in state prison;
- Second-degree robbery: up to 5 years in the state penitentiary;
- Carjacking: a prison sentence of 3-9 years;
- Armed robbery: a prison sentence of up to 9 years;
- Gang-related robbery: up to 9 years in prison.
It is important to note that said penalties are default only if there are no aggravating factors, such as crimes directly related to or resulting from attempted or committed robbery.
What are potential sentence enhancements for robbery?
If certain aggravating factors are present in a robbery case, they may call for sentence enhancements designed to increase the severity of the punishment. Some of the most common aggravating factors include (but aren’t limited to):
- The use of a deadly weapon: If a person uses a deadly weapon (e.g. knife, club, etc.) during a robbery, they may receive a sentence enhancement of up to 3 years in prison;
- The use of firearms: Under California’s “10-20-life” law, any person who uses a firearm to commit a robbery must receive a sentence enhancement of 10 years, 20 years, or life in prison, based on the specific circumstances of the case;
- The victim was elderly or disabled: Robbing an elderly or disabled person calls for sentence enhancement of up to 5 years in prison;
- Prior convictions: If the defendant has prior robbery convictions on their record, they may face additional 2-5 years in prison for each subsequent robbery conviction;
- Robbery committed during parole/probation: The sentence enhancement for this type of crime is determined on a per-case basis but, in general, results in additional 2-5 years in prison;
- Multiple victims: If there are multiple victims in the robbery, the defendant may face enhancements of up to 3 years in prison for each additional victim;
- Great bodily injury: Severe bodily harm to the victim of the robbery calls for an enhancement of up to 6 years in state prison.
Where in San Diego can I find a lawyer specializing in criminal defense cases?
If you or someone you know is facing robbery charges, it is crucial to have an experienced and dedicated criminal defense attorney who can help you understand the potential penalties and enhancements you may be facing. In San Diego, you won’t find anyone better suited to take up your case than Monder Criminal Lawyer Group.
Our team handled thousands of robbery cases over the years which made us uniquely adept at navigating California’s legal system and its nuances. We are ready to put all our collective knowledge and experience at your disposal to find the best possible resolution for your predicament.
Don’t leave your defense to chance, especially when the stakes are this high. Reach out to us today or visit our headquarters across the road from the historic Balboa Theatre and ensure strong defense by a team committed to your well-being.
