How does the Texas Penal Code define robbery?

Under Texas Penal Code §29.02, robbery is committed when someone, during a theft or attempted theft, causes bodily injury or threatens another with imminent bodily injury or death. No property needs to be taken for the charge to apply.

What is aggravated robbery in Texas?

Aggravated robbery, defined in Texas Penal Code §29.03, occurs when a robbery involves serious bodily injury, the use or display of a deadly weapon, or threats toward someone who is elderly or disabled. It carries harsher penalties than standard robbery.

What is the difference between burglary and robbery?

Robbery involves force, threats, or injury to a victim during a theft. Burglary involves entering a building, home, or vehicle without permission and with intent to commit theft or another crime, even if no one is present. Robbery focuses on confrontation; burglary focuses on unlawful entry.

What are the punishments for robbery in Texas?

Robbery is a second-degree felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Consequences include a permanent criminal record and restrictions affecting employment, housing, firearm rights, and immigration status.

What defenses apply to robbery charges in Texas?

Common defenses include lack of intent to commit theft, mistaken identity, absence of force or threats, insufficient evidence, alibi, or proof that property was given voluntarily. The appropriate defense depends on the facts of the case.

What should I do if I am accused of robbery in Texas?

You should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Robbery charges carry significant prison time and can impact your future. An attorney can explain your rights, evaluate evidence, and begin building a defense strategy.

Houston Robbery Defense Lawyer

Q: What is robbery in Texas?

Robbery in Texas occurs when a person attempts to commit theft and intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury or threatens another with imminent harm. Robbery involves force or threats during a theft attempt.

Q: What is the minimum sentence for aggravated robbery in Texas?

Aggravated robbery is a first-degree felony with a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison. Judges must impose at least 5 years, and sentences can range up to 99 years or life.

Q: Why should I hire a Texas criminal defense attorney for robbery charges?

Robbery and aggravated robbery are violent felony charges with severe penalties. A defense attorney can investigate the case, challenge evidence, interview witnesses, negotiate with prosecutors, and work to reduce or dismiss charges.

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Experienced Representation for Robbery and Aggravated Robbery in Harris County, Texas

Being accused of robbery in Houston is a serious matter that can lead to harsh penalties, including time in state prison and a permanent criminal record. As a trusted Houston robbery defense lawyer, B. Keith Jackson, Attorney and Counselor at Law PLLC, provides focused legal representation for individuals charged with robbery, aggravated robbery, and other theft crimes in Texas. Regardless of the details of your case, our goal is to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Call (281) 545-5020 or contact us online to discuss your legal options with an experienced theft crime lawyer in Houston today.

What is Robbery in Texas?

Robbery happens when someone tries to steal from another person and uses physical force or threatens bodily harm during the act. What makes robbery different from other theft crimes is that it involves direct confrontation with the victim and the use of violence or threats to take property.

Robbery Texas Penal Code

Under Texas Penal Code 29.02, a person commits robbery if, while trying to commit theft, they intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly cause bodily injury to another, or they threaten or place someone in fear of imminent bodily injury or death.

This means that even if nothing is physically taken, using force, threats, or causing physical harm during an attempted theft can lead to robbery charges. The law focuses on the intent to take something that doesn’t belong to you, combined with violent or threatening actions.

If you’ve been accused of robbery, it’s important to speak with a Houston robbery lawyer who understands how to challenge the evidence and protect your rights. An experienced attorney can help you understand what the prosecution must prove and what defenses may apply to your situation.

Aggravated Robbery Texas Penal Code

According to Texas Penal Code 29.03, a person can be charged with aggravated robbery if they commit a robbery and also cause serious bodily injury, use or exhibit a deadly weapon, or threaten harm to someone who is elderly or disabled.

This charge is treated more seriously than a regular robbery case because it involves a higher level of violence or threat. While robbery requires the use of force or threats during a theft, aggravated robbery adds another layer of harm or threat that makes the criminal charges much more severe under Texas law.

If you’ve been arrested for aggravated robbery, it’s essential to consult a Houston violent crime lawyer like B. Keith Jackson. As an experienced criminal defense attorney, he understands how to challenge evidence, question the intent, and look for ways to weaken the prosecution’s case. With a strong approach to criminal defense, Attorney Keith Jackson works to protect your rights and fight for a better outcome in even the toughest criminal cases.

Burglary vs. Robbery in Texas

Most people think that burglary and robbery are the same, but in reality, they are two very different theft crimes.

Robbery involves using force, threats, or causing bodily injury to a person during the commission of a theft. On the other hand, Burglary means entering a building, home, or vehicle without permission and with the intent to commit theft or another crime, even if no one is present or harmed.

In robbery cases, the victim is directly involved, but with burglary charges, the focus is on unlawful entry and intent. Both charges carry serious penalties and can lead to a criminal conviction.

At B. Keith Jackson, Attorney and Counselor at Law PLLC, we provide strong defense for people facing robbery and burglary charges. If you’ve been arrested or accused of a theft crime, you need a skilled burglary lawyer in Houston to review the evidence, explain your legal options, and fight for your future.

Punishment for Robbery in Texas

Under Texas law, robbery is classified as a second-degree felony. If convicted, you could face 2 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The punishment for aggravated robbery, a first-degree felony, is up to 99 years or life in prison, along with the same maximum fine.

In addition to prison time and fines, a robbery conviction can lead to other severe consequences. You could lose job opportunities, professional licenses, and housing options because of your criminal record. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you may also face immigration problems. A criminal conviction for robbery or aggravated robbery may also impact your ability to vote or own a firearm.

What is the Minimum Sentence for Aggravated Robbery in Texas?

The minimum sentence for aggravated robbery in Texas is 5 years in state prison, since it is charged as a first-degree felony. If you plead guilty or are found guilty, the judge must sentence you to at least 5 years.

Criminal defense lawyer B. Keith Jackson can work to get your charges reduced or push for the minimum sentence by challenging the evidence and negotiating with the prosecution. We make every effort to protect your freedom and help you avoid the most severe penalties.

Why Hire a Texas Criminal Defense Attorney for Robbery Charges?

When you’re facing serious charges like robbery or aggravated robbery, hiring an accomplished Houston criminal defense attorney can make a big difference in your case. These are violent offenses, and the consequences can affect the rest of your life.

We use our extensive experience to build a strong defense by carefully gathering evidence, reviewing the facts, and disputing the prosecution’s case. We take the time to prepare before your court date, speak with witnesses, and look for any legal issues that may help get your case dismissed or charges reduced.

Defenses to Robbery Charges

If you’ve been accused of robbery, there are several legal defenses that a criminal defense lawyer may employ, depending on the facts of your case. Each situation is different, but here are some common strategies that may be used:

Lack of intent - You didn’t have the intention to commit theft or hurt anyone.
Mistaken identity- You were wrongly identified as the person who committed the crime.
No use of force or threats - The incident may have involved theft, but not the use of force or threats of violence.
Alibi - You were somewhere else when the robbery occurred.
Insufficient evidence - The prosecutor lacks enough evidence to proceed with the criminal charges.
Consent - The property was given to you voluntarily, and no force or threat was used.

An experienced criminal lawyer like B. Keith Jackson will review your robbery case, examine all the evidence, and decide which defense best fits your situation. The goal is to secure the best possible outcome, whether that’s a reduced charge, a lighter sentence, or having your case dismissed altogether.

Contact Texas Robbery Lawyer B. Keith Jackson to Schedule a Confidential Consultation

Being charged with a theft crime like robbery is a serious legal matter that requires immediate attention. At B. Keith Jackson, Attorney and Counselor at Law PLLC, we serve clients in Harris County and throughout the Houston area. With extensive knowledge of Texas criminal law, our team is prepared to stand by your side.

Whether you or a family member is facing charges, we’ll work hard to protect your future and prevent a criminal conviction. Call (281) 545-5020 or contact us online to discuss your legal options with a Houston criminal lawyer today.

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