Chicago Robbery Lawyer

Robbery in Illinois is defined as taking property from another person or place through the use of force or by threatening the imminent use of force. The distinguishing factor between robbery and theft under Illinois law is whether force was used during the commission of the alleged crime.

Robbery is a Class 2 felony. However, if certain circumstances exist, robbery may be considered a Class 1 felony. If the alleged victim was over 60 years old or physically disabled, or if the robbery occurred on school or religious grounds, prosecutors may seek conviction on the elevated Class 1 felony charge. A conviction for robbery can result in:

• 3 to 7 years in prison, possible extension of time to 7 to 14 years, and fines up to $25,000, for a Class 2 felony
• 4 to 15 years in prison, possible extension of time to 15 to 30 years, and fines up to $25,000, for a Class 1 felony

Chicago Robbery Defense

It is critical that you secure the services of an experienced and accomplished Chicago criminal defense attorney to quickly begin building a defense against the serious charge of robbery. Jeffry Mandell has been handling robbery cases for decades. Mr. Mandell understands the need to quickly begin investigating all of the facts of your case in order to build the best possible defense. Beginning with a free initial consultation, Mr. Mandell will listen to your story and inform you of your options. Mr. Mandell is willing to pursue all legal avenues, challenge evidence, investigate witness accounts, secure the testimony of experts and, if necessary, negotiate with the prosecution, all with the goal of achieving a positive outcome.

Chicago Armed Robbery and Aggravated Robbery

A person may face aggravated robbery charges if any weapon, including a knife, gun, or blunt object, was used during the robbery. The state can charge a suspect with aggravated robbery even if the suspect was not actually in possession of a weapon during the alleged crime. A person must simply indicate that he or she has a weapon and intends to use it.

Armed robbery occurs when an individual forcibly takes or attempts to take property through the use of a deadly weapon. A deadly weapon, although typically thought of as a firearm, is anything that can be used to maim or kill another person. Armed robbery is a far more serious charge than robbery. It is a Class X felony that can carry a jail sentence of 6 to 30 years with no possibility for probation and no maximum fine.

If you have been charged with robbery, aggravated robbery or armed robbery, the potential penalties are severe. You deserve an aggressive defense. Jeffry Mandell is familiar with the intricacies of the Illinois criminal justice system as well as the strategies prosecutors often use to attempt to convict individuals arrested on robbery charges. He will not back down in the face of overzealous prosecution. Contact Mr. Mandell for a free consultation and start building your defense now.