Robbery Defense Lawyer in Walnut Creek
Defending Serious Theft Charges
Robbery can be a felony offense, which means that they are considered very serious in the state of California. Facing these charges on your own is scary. Retaining the representation of a committed Walnut Creek theft crime lawyer is the most important step in making sure that your robbery case is well-represented.
Call Thomas Daly Law, A Professional Corporation now at (925) 208-4801.
Robbery vs. Theft
You may have thought you were getting charged with theft but were surprised when you saw that law enforcement was bringing robbery charges against you.
Both crimes involve taking something that doesn’t belong to you, but there are differences:
- Robbery: Robbery is theft with the use of force, intimidation, threats, or violence.
- Theft: Theft is when you take something that doesn’t belong to you, but either nobody was there when it happened, or nobody was hurt or threatened.
Robbery crimes are most often felony cases, which can lead to prison time and a lifelong criminal record. Hiring a robbery defense lawyer in Walnut Creek is the first step you need to take in order to ensure to protect your future. Once you meet with your lawyer, he will be able to give you advice and guidance for your case, which may involve going to trial, signing a plea deal, or getting the charges dismissed due to lack of evidence.
Common Mistakes People Make When Accused of Robbery
When accused of robbery, individuals often make critical errors that can severely impact the outcome of their case. Understanding these common mistakes can help you avoid potentially damaging actions and improve your chances of a more favorable resolution. Below are some of the most frequent missteps to be aware of:
- Talking to Law Enforcement Without a Lawyer: Many individuals believe they can explain their way out of charges without realizing that anything they say can be used against them later.
- Failing to Exercise Their Right to Remain Silent: People often feel the need to talk to clear their name but inadvertently provide information that could harm their case.
- Not Hiring an Attorney Immediately: Delaying the hiring of a robbery defense attorney can result in missed opportunities for gathering crucial evidence and building a strong defense.
- Speaking About the Case Publicly: Discussing the details of the case with friends, family, or on social media can provide prosecutors with additional evidence to use against them.
- Ignoring Court Orders and Deadlines: Missing court appearances or failing to meet legal deadlines can worsen the situation, including additional charges and penalties.
- Underestimating the Severity of the Charges: Many accused individuals do not fully comprehend the gravity of robbery charges and the potential long-term consequences, such as prison time and a lifelong criminal record.
A Walnut Creek robbery attorney can help avoid these mistakes by providing expert legal counsel from the outset. They advise clients to exercise their right to remain silent and represent them during police interrogations to ensure no detrimental statements are made. The attorney also ensures that all legal procedures are followed correctly, meets all deadlines, and represents the accused vigorously in court. With effective communication and strategic planning, the attorney aims to mitigate the charges or get them dismissed, thereby protecting the client's future and rights.
Defense Strategies for Robbery Charges
When facing robbery charges in Walnut Creek, it is crucial to explore all possible defense strategies to challenge the prosecution's case. Some common defenses include:
- Alibi: If the accused can prove that they were somewhere else at the time the robbery occurred, this can serve as a strong defense.
- Mistaken Identity: Eyewitness testimony can sometimes be unreliable. If there is reason to believe that the accused has been wrongly identified as the perpetrator, challenging the identification can be effective.
- Lack of Evidence: If the prosecution does not have enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the accused committed the robbery, the charges may be dismissed.
- Coercion or Duress: If the accused participated in the robbery because they were forced to by someone else under the threat of harm, this can serve as a valid defense.
- Violation of Constitutional Rights: If the accused’s constitutional rights were violated during the investigation or arrest (e.g., unlawful search and seizure), certain evidence may be inadmissible in court.
A seasoned Walnut Creek robbery defense lawyer will thoroughly investigate all aspects of the case, including scrutinizing evidence and witness testimonies, to build the most robust defense possible.
Impact of Robbery Charges on a Person's Life
Robbery charges can have devastating impacts on various aspects of a person's life. If convicted, the individual may face significant prison time, along with hefty fines and restitution payments. Moreover, a felony conviction will lead to a lifelong criminal record, which can make it incredibly challenging to secure employment, housing, or educational opportunities. The social stigma associated with a robbery conviction can also strain personal relationships and tarnish one's reputation within the community.
Acquiring the services of Thomas Daly Law, A Professional Corporation, can be instrumental in navigating these challenges. Our experienced robbery defense attorneys will provide you with comprehensive legal support from the beginning. We understand the gravity of the charges and the potential long-term consequences. Our goal is to mitigate the impact of these charges on your life, whether through negotiating plea deals, seeking reduced charges, or fighting for a complete dismissal due to insufficient evidence. By offering personalized guidance and strategic defense planning, we strive to protect your rights and help you regain control of your future.
Contact Walnut Creek Criminal Defense Attorney Thomas Daly now to schedule your free consultation.