ROBBERY
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Robbery in Florida: Legal Definition and Enforcement
Robbery in Florida is a serious violent crime defined under Florida Statute § 812.13 as the taking of money or property from another person with the use of force, violence, assault, or putting the victim in fear. What separates robbery from theft or burglary is the presence of direct confrontation with the victim and the use or threat of force during the commission of the crime. Because it involves the violation of another person’s physical safety, robbery is prosecuted aggressively by law enforcement and the courts.
Florida recognizes several types of robbery offenses, including armed robbery, strong-arm robbery (without a weapon), carjacking, home invasion robbery, and robbery by sudden snatching (such as grabbing a purse or phone from someone’s hands). The penalties vary depending on the circumstances, but robbery is always at least a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. If a firearm or deadly weapon is involved, the crime becomes a first-degree felony, carrying up to life imprisonment and mandatory minimum sentences under Florida’s “10-20-Life” law.
Law enforcement agencies in Florida treat robbery as a high-priority offense due to its impact on community safety. Investigations often involve immediate response units, eyewitness testimony, surveillance footage, DNA or fingerprint evidence, and even cooperation with federal agencies when firearms or repeat offenders are involved. Police also work closely with prosecutors to ensure charges reflect the seriousness of the act, often adding charges like aggravated assault or firearm possession to strengthen their case.
Because robbery cases frequently involve fast-moving events, conflicting witness accounts, and emotional trauma, defense attorneys often focus on identification issues, questioning whether the accused was accurately identified. They may also argue lack of intent, false accusations, or constitutional violations in the arrest process. Florida courts require a high burden of proof, and the outcome often hinges on the strength of both physical evidence and witness credibility. With such high stakes involved, skilled legal representation is essential—for both protecting the accused and upholding the rights of victims.
At Crag Chaderton Law, we understand how traumatic robbery can be—for victims and the wrongfully accused alike. Whether you need legal help after an incident or want guidance on protecting your rights and property, we are here to provide legal strength, clarity, and support every step of the way.
At Crag Chaderton Law, your freedom is our fight. We don't just prepare a defense—we prepare to win. Whether through negotiation, motion practice, or trial, we stand with you every step of the way, delivering bold, principled, and unrelenting representation in the face of robbery charges.
Crag Chaderton Law Strategies for Robbery Defense
At Crag Chaderton Law, we understand that being charged with robbery in Florida is a life-altering experience. The legal consequences are severe, often involving lengthy prison sentences, mandatory minimums, and long-term damage to your reputation and future. That’s why we approach robbery defense with a strategic, aggressive, and detail-oriented mindset—ensuring every client receives a powerful defense rooted in law, facts, and fairness.
Our first line of defense in any robbery case is to closely analyze the evidence, particularly how law enforcement identified the accused. Robbery cases often depend heavily on eyewitness testimony, which can be unreliable, especially in high-stress situations. We examine whether the identification process was tainted by suggestive police lineups, poor visibility, or biased questioning. If the prosecution’s case relies on surveillance video or photos, we bring in forensic experts to challenge the quality, context, and conclusiveness of that footage.
key elements of our robbery defense
Challenging the Identification
Challenging the Identification
Unreliable Eyewitness Testimony: Cross-examine witnesses on lighting, visibility, stress levels, and timing.
Faulty Lineup Procedures: Investigate whether police used a suggestive or improperly conducted photo or in-person lineup.
Surveillance Footage Analysis: Use forensic experts to examine quality, clarity, and relevance of video or images used by the prosecution.
We also understand that some clients may be falsely accused, swept up in group arrests, or charged because of mistaken identity. In those situations, we act fast to preserve alibis, gather defense witnesses, and file motions to dismiss unsupported charges. Our aggressive early intervention has helped many clients avoid the most serious consequences altogether.
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Steps to Safeguard Yourself from Robbery
Robbery is a frightening and potentially dangerous crime, but there are effective ways to protect yourself, reduce your risk, and prepare for emergencies. Whether you're at home, out in public, or operating a business, staying alert and following smart safety habits can help keep you out of harm’s way.
1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Avoid distractions like looking down at your phone when walking alone, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Pay attention to who is around you. Trust your instincts—if someone makes you feel uneasy, move away or seek help.
Walk with purpose and confidence. Criminals often target those who appear distracted or vulnerable.
2. Avoid High-Risk Situations
2. Avoid High-Risk Situations
Stick to well-lit, populated areas when walking at night.
Don’t carry large amounts of cash or flashy jewelry that can make you a target.
Avoid using ATMs in isolated or dark locations—opt for machines in secure, indoor spaces.
3. Practice Vehicle Safety
3. Practice Vehicle Safety
Keep car doors locked at all times, even while driving.
Park in secure, well-lit areas and check your surroundings before exiting or entering your vehicle.
If you're approached while in your car, stay inside, lock the doors, and drive away if possible.
4. Strengthen Home Security
4. Strengthen Home Security
Keep doors and windows locked, even when you're home.
Install security systems, motion-activated lights, and surveillance cameras.
Don’t open the door to strangers—ask for ID, or speak through a closed door when unsure.
Under Florida Statute § 812.13, robbery occurs when an individual, with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive another person of their property, takes that property while using force, violence, assault, or by putting the victim in fear. The essential element that transforms a simple theft into robbery is the use of physical intimidation or actual force. The law does not require the victim to suffer physical injury—merely placing them in fear during the act of taking is enough to qualify as robbery.
Florida law further distinguishes robbery into several classifications based on how the crime was committed:
Strong-arm robbery (robbery without a weapon) is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, and a $10,000 fine.
Armed robbery (with a weapon but not a firearm) is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
Armed robbery with a firearm or deadly weapon is also a first-degree felony, but with enhanced penalties including mandatory minimum sentences under Florida’s “10-20-Life” law—10 years for possessing a firearm, 20 years for firing it, and 25 years to life if someone is injured or killed.
Home invasion robbery and carjacking are treated with equal severity and may carry life sentences depending on the presence of a weapon and the use of force.
Because robbery often happens in public places or during encounters between strangers, law enforcement responses are swift and strategic. Police departments prioritize robbery cases, especially those involving firearms or repeat offenders, and will deploy units to gather surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and witness testimony. In many instances, suspects are apprehended based on real-time alerts or community tips.
Florida prosecutors take an aggressive stance on robbery, especially if the crime occurs near schools, involves vulnerable victims like the elderly, or is part of a broader pattern of criminal behavior. Repeat offenders can be designated as habitual violent felony offenders, facing enhanced sentencing provisions.
Defense against robbery charges requires a thorough understanding of criminal procedure and forensic evidence. Defense attorneys may challenge the reliability of witness identifications, question the legality of searches and seizures, or argue that the alleged act did not involve force or fear, and therefore should be classified as theft rather than robbery. Misidentifications, false accusations, or overcharging by law enforcement are also common issues in robbery cases.
Ultimately, robbery charges carry lifelong consequences—not just long prison terms, but also a permanent felony record, loss of civil rights, and barriers to employment and housing. For those facing robbery allegations, it is absolutely vital to work with a knowledgeable and aggressive legal team that understands how to dissect the state's case and protect your rights from the outset.
Charged with Robbery in Florida? Don’t Face It Alone.
Being accused of robbery is a serious matter that could cost you your freedom, your future, and your reputation. At Crag Chaderton Law, we understand what’s at stake—and we’re here to fight back with powerful, strategic defense.
Your case deserves more than a plea deal. It deserves a real defense.
Call Crag Chaderton Law today to schedule a confidential consultation.
🕾 (321) 443 7481
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