Armed and Unarmed Robbery Carry Long Prison Sentences in Michigan

Felony Robbery Crimes in Michigan

“The leading rule for the lawyer, as for the man of every calling, is diligence”
— Abraham Lincoln
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Defending Michigan Felony Robbery Charges

In Michigan, robbery is a major felony where a conviction will likely result in jail or even significant prison time.  A Michigan robbery case can take place in many different ways, including holding people hostage with firearms, or simply snatching a purse. Regardless, prosecutors take these charges very seriously and normally will request prison time if the person is convicted. We are Michigan criminal attorneys who have handled many robbery cases.

Michigan Unarmed Robbery

Per the Michigan Robbery statute, MCL §750.530, somebody who, in the course of committing a larceny of any money or other property that may be the subject of larceny, uses force or violence against any person who is present, or who assaults or puts the person in fear, is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 15 years.  What we normally see with this type of charge in addition to normal robbery situations, are cases where somebody fights with a security guard as they exit a store.  Unfortunately, many prosecutors believe that any use of force while the defendant leaves the store is enough to enact the robbery statute.  Because of this, what would normally be a low level retail fraud misdemeanor turns into a possible prison sentence felony.

Armed Robbery in Michigan

As Michigan robbery lawyers, we have dealt with our fair share of armed robbery cases.  Per Michigan law MCL §750.529, if while committing an alleged robbery, possesses a dangerous weapon or an article used or fashioned in a manner to lead any person present to reasonably believe the article is a dangerous weapon, or who represents orally or otherwise that he or she is in possession of a dangerous weapon, they can be found guilty of armed robbery, a charge with a possible life imprisonment sentence.  Further, if any injury results from the armed robbery, you or your loved one must do a mandatory minimum two yeas incarceration.

Defenses to a Robbery Charge

As with other assault crimes, a challenge to the accused’s intent is always a good defense. Many times in robbery cases, identification is another major issue. Hiring the right video expert for example to show it was another person would be a great way to defend a robbery case. As with all major felony cases, we take the time to develop a proper strategy and push it forward aggressively during the case. This type of litigation strategy in criminal robbery cases will give you a chance of winning. Call us today to discuss your Michigan robbery case.