Ways to Beat a Robbery Charge in Illinois

 Posted on November 14, 2022 in Criminal Law

In the State of Illinois, a robbery occurs when someone takes property from someone else through force or the threatened use of force. Additionally, the law states that the taking of property must be directly from another person or in the presence of another person. Being charged with robbery is a serious offense that, if convicted, may land the accused in prison for an extended period and require the accused to pay hefty fines.

While challenging, there are different ways to beat a charge of robbery. If you have been charged with robbery, it is essential you consult with a knowledgable attorney who has experience in robbery cases to ensure the most favorable outcome for yourself in the case. 

Robbery Laws in Illinois

Notably, robbery is a type of theft offense. To begin, robbery is a class 2 felony holding punishments of three to seven years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Suppose the robbery is committed against someone 60 years or older or in a place of worship, daycare facility, or school. In that case, the charge is escalated to a class 1 felony, carrying a punishment of four to fifteen years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Once you are released from jail, you will be placed on parole for two years. 

Beating the Charge 

As soon as you are arrested and charged, do not speak with the police. A robust criminal defense begins before you hire and meet with your attorney. Remember, law enforcement can and will use whatever you say against you in court. By refraining from speaking with the police, you protect yourself from self-incrimination. 

Since robbery is a theft offense, the prosecution must prove that you took property from someone intending to deprive that person of the property. Therefore, the first step in beating a robbery charge is showing the court that you never intended to take or keep any property belonging to anyone else. If it can be proven that you never intended to take or keep someone else’s property, you cannot be guilty of robbery. 

Another way you can beat the charge of robbery is by proving you never used force or threatened to use force to take someone else’s property. In this case, force needs to be more than the touching necessary to take the property. In addition, if you were intoxicated at the time of the alleged event, you may be able to reduce the charge from robbery to a lesser crime. Since you were intoxicated, you may have been able to form any specific intent to rob someone.

Contact an Orlando Park Robbery Attorney

Just because you were charged with robbery does not mean all hope is lost and conviction is certain. If you have been charged with robbery, consider consulting with Orlando Park, Illinois, robbery lawyer Khaled Issa. With years of experience, he will aggressively represent you and protect your rights. Call Issa Law, LLC at 708-966-2408 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?ActID=1876&ChapterID=53&SeqStart=61900000&SeqEnd=62600000