Robbery
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Charged with Robbery?
Robbery is a more serious offense than simple theft in Quebec, involving aggravating circumstances such as the use of weapons, violence, or recidivism. Penalties can include lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a criminal record that impacts personal and professional life. Understanding the legal criteria and consequences of Robbery is crucial for assessing your situation and preparing an effective defense.
Speak with a Specialized Robbery Lawyer in Quebec
Consulting a specialized criminal lawyer is essential: an experienced criminal lawyer is knowledgeable about local laws and appropriate defense strategies, potentially reducing charges or obtaining alternative sentences.
What is Robbery According to the Criminal Code?
Robbery, according to the Criminal Code of Canada, refers to theft involving violence, threats of violence, or the carrying of a weapon during the act. It is a serious offense due to the use of force or intimidation.
Under the Criminal Code, robbery is an especially serious offense because it involves not only the taking of someone else’s property but also violence, threats of violence, or the use of a weapon (including an offensive weapon or one with restricted authorization). The applicable legal articles provide for severe convictions due to the violence factor, which aggravates the seriousness of the charge.
The Importance of Intention and Circumstances
From a criminal defense perspective, the intention and circumstances surrounding the alleged acts play a determining role:
- Use or possession of a weapon: The use of an offensive weapon or an object similar to a weapon—especially if the weapon has restricted authorization—can lead to a heavier prison sentence.
- Acts of violence or threats of violence: Threats of violence made towards a victim, whether an employee or a property owner in businesses, significantly worsen the defendant’s legal situation.
- Criminal organization: When robbery is committed within or for the benefit of a criminal organization, it constitutes an aggravating circumstance that can lead to longer sentences.
- Sector involved: Thefts carried out in specific locations (banks, jewelry stores, other businesses) can increase the severity of the charge, as they expose a larger number of people to acts of violence.
The Notion of Appearance of Rights is Also Crucial!
To prove robbery, the Crown must demonstrate that the accused acted without legal justification and with the intention to appropriate property. When facing such an accusation, it is essential to consult a lawyer specialized in criminal law to analyze the evidence and determine if there is reasonable doubt regarding your guilt.
The Consequences of a Conviction for Robbery
A conviction for robbery can have lasting repercussions on your future:
- Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the criminal offense, the use of a weapon, and criminal history, the sentence can range from a few months to several years in prison.
- Criminal record: Having a criminal record can harm your employment prospects, travel opportunities, and reputation.
- Financial penalties: Substantial fines may be added to the legal penalty to compensate for damages caused during the offense.
We understand that every situation is unique. We take the time to dissect all elements of your case to demonstrate, if applicable, that reasonable doubt remains regarding your guilt.
Why Hire a Specialized Lawyer in Theft Cases?
When facing a charge of robbery, it is imperative to work with a criminal lawyer who is thoroughly familiar with criminal law. A criminal lawyer offers you:
- Rigorous analysis of evidence: We verify the legality of evidence collection and evaluate each element to identify potential irregularities.
- Personalized defense strategy: Circumstances vary greatly from one case to another, and we adapt our approach accordingly.
- Challenging criminal intent: We meticulously examine the facts to demonstrate the absence of intent or appearance of rights, if applicable.
- Reduction of charges or sentence: In some cases, negotiating with the Crown can reduce the severity of the charge or avoid a prolonged prison sentence.
Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights
Whether it’s theft with threats of violence in businesses, in a public place, or related to a criminal organization, our partner criminal lawyers are ready to support you. The sooner you contact us, the better our chances of highlighting flaws or reasonable doubt in the case.
Don’t let a robbery charge jeopardize your freedom and future. Schedule an appointment now with one of our experienced criminal law lawyers. Together, we will develop a solid defense strategy to protect your interests and limit the consequences of such an offense under the Criminal Code.