Harrisburg Armed Robbery Defense Lawyer
Arrested for Armed Robbery? Contact Our Harrisburg Defense Lawyer Today
At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg armed robbery defense attorney is a strong, knowledgeable, and experienced advocate for clients. Armed robbery is a felony offense. You need a top lawyer on your side. If you or your loved one was arrested and charged with armed robbery, we can help. Contact us at our Harrisburg law office today to set up your confidential consultation with a Pennsylvania felony defense attorney.
An Overview of Armed Robbery Charges in Pennsylvania
Armed robbery in Pennsylvania is prosecuted under the state’s robbery statute: 18 Pa.C.S. § 3701. As the name suggests, armed robbery is a type of robbery. A person commits robbery if, in the course of committing a theft, they inflict serious bodily injury, threaten another with immediate serious bodily injury, or commit or threaten to commit a first- or second-degree felony.
The offense becomes armed robbery (a more serious crime) when the defendant uses or visibly possesses a deadly weapon. Pennsylvania defines “deadly weapon” broadly. Firearms qualify automatically. They are treated very seriously in armed robbery cases. Beyond that, knives, metal objects, or any item used in a manner likely to cause serious injury may also satisfy the standard.
Note: When a deadly weapon is involved, the offense is typically graded as a felony of the first degree. It is the most serious non-homicide classification in the Commonwealth.
The Penalties for Armed Robbery in Pennsylvania
A conviction for an armed robbery offense carries very serious criminal penalties. A first-degree felony carries a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison under 18 Pa.C.S. § 1103(1). Sentencing courts must also follow the Pennsylvania Sentencing Guidelines. By regulation, the guidelines increase the recommended range significantly when a deadly weapon is involved.
Indeed, in Pennsylvania, the Deadly Weapon Enhancement (DWE) applies when a weapon was possessed, used, or threatened during the robbery. The enhancement substantially raises the minimum guideline range even for defendants with a limited criminal history. Judges also consider aggravating factors such as the degree of injury, the number of victims, the prior record score, whether the firearm was operable, and if the weapon was discharged or caused serious bodily injury.
How Harrisburg Defense Lawyer David M. Hoover Can Help
Armed robbery is a very serious criminal charge in Pennsylvania. If you are facing this offense, it is imperative that you have strong, experienced legal representation. Our founder, David M. Hoover has the criminal defense expertise you can trust in important cases. Among other things, our Harrisburg armed robbery defense attorney is prepared to:
- Conduct a comprehensive, confidential review and assessment of your case;
- Investigate your armed robbery arrest in Harrisburg;
- Handle correspondence with police and prosecutors; and
- Develop a truly personalized defense strategy focused on getting results.
Contact Our Harrisburg Armed Robbery Defense Lawyer Today
At The Hoover Firm, LLC, our Harrisburg armed robbery defense lawyer handles even the most serious of felony charges. Arrested for armed robbery? We are here to protect your rights. Contact us today to set up a confidential, no-obligation initial consultation.