Understand what a robbery is and how it differs from burglary

Some people use the terms robbery and burglary interchangeably; however, this is incorrect. There are a few differences between the elements of these charges that can have a profound impact on the case. If you are facing one of these charges, you should understand a few basic things.

First, robbery charges usually involve a victim who was physically present during the incident. A burglary charge usually doesn’t involve a victim who was there at the time of the crime.

Second, there has to be an element of either fear or harm for a robbery charge. This is one of the reasons why the victim has to be present at the time of the crime. The person who was committing the crime has to make the person feel in fear of his or her safety or has to actually harm him or her.

Third, it is possible to have an attachment of “aggravated” accompany a robbery charge. This is often the case when there is a weapon involved in the crime. The presence of a weapon would mean the victim had a good reason to think that he or she would be harmed.

Fourth, the crime had to have been done to deprive another person of his or her property without his or her permission. For example, if you break into a home, hold the occupant at gunpoint and take a television, you could be charged with aggravated robbery.

When you are charged with a robbery charge, you need to think carefully about your defense. This is a violent charge that could land you in prison and make your life difficult even after you have paid your debt to society.

Source: FindLaw, “Robbery Overview,” accessed Aug. 23, 2017