Robbery charges are incredibly serious in Georgia. Upon conviction, you could face years of incarceration, high fines, and a multitude of other long-lasting penalties. If you’re accused of robbery, having a knowledgeable and experienced Atlanta criminal defense lawyer in your corner is paramount. Contact Williamson Legal for a free consultation today so we can assess the circumstances of your charges and, from there, build a strong defense on your behalf.
Types of Robbery in Georgia
Under Georgia law, robbery is defined as taking property from another person, or from their immediate presence, by the use of force, intimidation, or sudden snatching. However, Georgia recognizes several distinct forms of robbery, each carrying its own legal implications and potential penalties.
- Robbery: This is the basic form of robbery under O.C.G.A. § 16-8-40. It occurs when a person takes property directly from another through the use of force, intimidation, or sudden snatching. It does not require the use of a weapon.
- Armed Robbery: Codified under O.C.G.A. § 16-8-41, armed robbery involves the use of an offensive weapon, or even a replica of one, during the commission of the robbery. Armed robbery is punished far more harshly than simple robbery because of the added danger to the victim.
- Robbery by Intimidation: Even if no physical force or weapon is used, if the alleged victim believes they are in imminent danger of bodily harm, it can be classified as robbery by intimidation. Simply threatening gestures, words, or actions can be sufficient to meet this definition under Georgia law.
- Robbery by Sudden Snatching: As defined in O.C.G.A. § 16-8-40(a)(3), robbery by sudden snatching occurs when property is taken directly from another’s person without their immediate consent and with an element of surprise or force. A classic example would be grabbing someone’s purse off their shoulder and running away.
Consequences of a Robbery Conviction in GA
If you are convicted of robbery in Georgia, the penalties you face can be severe and life-altering. Potential consequences include the following.
Robbery (General)
- Felony conviction
- 1 to 20 years in prison
- Probation following release
- Restitution to the victim
- Permanent criminal record
Armed Robbery
- Mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, up to life imprisonment
- No eligibility for parole until the minimum sentence is served
- Potential for enhanced penalties if certain aggravating factors are present (such as injury to the victim)
Robbery by Intimidation or Sudden Snatching
- Also classified as felonies
- 1 to 20 years in prison
- Fines, probation, and other court-ordered penalties
Additional Consequences
- Loss of civil rights, including the right to own or possess firearms
- Barriers to employment, housing, and professional licensing
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens, including deportation
- Damage to personal and professional reputation
The Impact of Previous Convictions
If you have a prior criminal record, especially one that includes violent offenses or prior robbery convictions, the stakes are even higher. In Georgia, courts heavily consider a defendant’s criminal history when determining sentencing for robbery charges.
- Recidivist Sentencing: Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 17-10-7) imposes harsher penalties on repeat offenders. If you have prior felony convictions, you may face mandatory minimum sentences without the possibility of parole, and judges often have limited discretion to offer leniency.
- Enhanced Sentences for Repeat Robbery: A second robbery conviction can result in significantly lengthened prison terms, potentially life imprisonment, even if the new robbery charge would not independently warrant that severe a punishment.
- Habitual Offender Status: Defendants classified as habitual offenders may receive maximum allowable sentences under the law, and eligibility for parole or probation can be sharply restricted or eliminated altogether.
- Impact on Plea Negotiations: Prosecutors may be less willing to negotiate favorable plea deals for defendants with prior convictions, viewing them as higher-risk individuals in the eyes of the court.
In short, a prior criminal record can dramatically impact both the process and the outcome of a robbery case. If you have a history of criminal convictions, it is even more vital to have an experienced Atlanta criminal defense attorney advocating on your behalf.
Contact a Cobb County Robbery Defense Lawyer
Robbery charges can potentially change a person’s life forever–don’t face them alone. Williamson Legal has been a trusted legal resource for individuals facing serious criminal charges in Atlanta and throughout Georgia for years, and we stand ready to fight for your future and freedom, too. Contact a robbery defense lawyer from Williamson Legal for your free case evaluation today.
