If you are currently facing armed robbery charges in Pennsylvania, you’re most likely very concerned about the potential penalties you may face. Please continue reading and reach out to a seasoned Montgomery County theft lawyer from Cohen & Patel to learn more. Here are some of the questions you may have:
How Is Armed Robbery Defined in Pennsylvania Law?
Armed robbery is more than mere theft; Pennsylvania law distinguishes it by the presence of a weapon during the commission of a theft. Specifically, Title 18, Section 3701 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes outlines robbery, emphasizing the involvement of a firearm or other deadly weapon. Such a distinction escalates the severity of the crime significantly, and Pennsylvania law is designed to penalize not just the theft, but the heightened threat to victim safety.
What Penalties Do Offenders Face?
Armed robbery, typically categorized as a felony of the first degree, places offenders at risk of facing the most severe consequences under the state’s penal code. The specific penalties for armed robbery charges vary widely based on several critical factors, such as the nature of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the presence of aggravating or mitigating circumstances, among others.
A conviction for a first-degree felony in Pennsylvania, including armed robbery, can result in a prison sentence ranging from 10 to 20 years. This range serves as a base, with the actual sentence potentially extending toward the maximum based on the case specifics.
For particularly egregious instances of armed robbery, where serious bodily injury occurs, or where the offender has a significant criminal history, sentences can approach or reach the maximum limit.
Beyond the base prison sentence, the law allows for additional penalties that can compound the convicted individual’s challenges. Fines for armed robbery can reach up to $25,000, imposing a significant financial burden on the offender and their family.
Additionally, the consequences of an armed robbery conviction extend well into the life of the offender, beyond the immediate penalties of prison time and fines. Upon release, convicted felons face a society that often stigmatizes those with criminal records, complicating efforts to secure employment, housing, and educational opportunities.
The loss of civil rights is another profound impact, including the inability to vote while incarcerated or on parole, and restrictions on firearm ownership. In some cases, the conviction can affect parental rights and immigration status, leading to deportation for non-citizens.
For these reasons, it’s paramount that you hire a seasoned criminal defense lawyer who can effectively represent your interests and fight for your freedom. Fortunately, if you’re reading this, you have come to the right place. Contact Cohen & Patel today so we can get started working on your case.
