Robbery in Kent
In Washington state, robbery is classified as a felony under RCW 9A.56.190, making it a very serious charge. The prosecution typically seeks prison time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record for a robbery conviction. Whether you're facing first-degree robbery (using force or fear to steal from another person) or second-degree robbery (stealing with the threat of force), the stakes are high. You need a skilled Kent legal team specializing in this area.
If you're facing robbery charges in Kent, Washington, call our defense attorneys. We have defended clients across Western Washington against serious charges like these.
Count on us to thoroughly review every detail of your case and examine the prosecution's evidence and law enforcement's collection methods, looking for inconsistencies, violations of your rights, and any procedural mistakes that could weaken your case. We'll explore every angle to fight for reduced charges or even case dismissal.
Our Robbery Defense Attorneys Are Here To Support YouIf you're facing robbery charges, you need a Kent defense team with the expertise, reputation, and dedication to fight for your rights. With over 20 years of experience defending against robbery charges, our attorneys know how to advocate for you in King County. When your future is at stake, trust our legal team, which knows what's on the line. We're here to stand by your side and take on your case with the commitment and expertise you deserve.
Robbery Versus Burglary Versus Theft Under Washington State LawRobbery, burglary, and theft are distinct crimes under Washington state law, each defined by the circumstances and intent behind the act.
- Robbery is taking property from another person using force, threats, or intimidation and is defined under RCW 9A.56.190. It is considered a violent crime because it directly endangers the victim.
- Burglary, under RCW 9A.52.020-040, is when a person unlawfully enters a building to commit a crime inside, which may or may not involve theft. Burglary focuses on unlawful entry and intent, regardless of whether the property is actually taken.
- Theft, outlined in RCW 9A.56.020-050, is unlawfully taking or exerting control over someone else's property with the intent to take it from them permanently. Unlike robbery, theft does not require force, and unlike burglary, it does not require unlawful entry.
While these crimes share some similarities, the distinctions affect how they are charged and the potential penalties. As robbery is a far more serious offense than burglary or theft, it comes with significant penalties. To reduce these penalties, you need a robbery attorney in Kent to defend against the prosecutor's case against you.
What Does The King County Prosecution Have To Prove In A Robbery Case?The prosecution must prove specific elements beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a robbery conviction in King County under RCW 9A.56.190. They must prove:
- There Was An Unlawful Taking Of Property: The defendant took personal property belonging to another person.
- There Was Use Of Force, Threats, Or Intimidation: The defendant used or threatened to use force to take the property or prevent the victim from resisting.
- A Victim Was Present: The property was taken directly from the victim or their immediate presence.
- There Was The Intent to Permanently Deprive: The defendant planned to permanently take the victim's property.
If the King County Courts charge you with robbery (First Degree), the prosecution must also prove aggravating factors like the use of a deadly weapon, infliction of bodily harm, or committing the robbery against a financial institution.
The prosecution relies on evidence like eyewitness testimony, video footage, physical evidence, and police reports to meet these elements. Our experienced robbery defense attorney can challenge the sufficiency and credibility of this evidence to create reasonable doubt and fight the charges.
The Penalties And Consequences Of A Kent Robbery ConvictionA robbery conviction in Kent carries severe legal and personal consequences. Under Washington state law, robbery is classified as a felony, with penalties varying based on the degree of the offense. Robbery (First Degree) is a Class A felony punishable by up to life in prison and fines of up to $50,000, while Robbery (Second Degree) is a Class B felony punishable with up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $20,000.
Beyond prison time and fines, a robbery conviction comes with lasting consequences. As a felony, robbery creates a permanent criminal record that significantly impacts your ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain loans. If a firearm is involved, you will permanently lose your right to possess firearms. You can also lose your right to vote. Given the severity of these consequences, you should not face robbery charges alone. Seek the help of an expert Kent attorney who specializes in robbery defense.
Local Experience Matters When You Face Robbery ChargesWhen you face serious charges like robbery, local expertise matters. As attorneys in Kent, Washington, we know our town well. You’ll find us spending time at Kent Farmers Market, Lake Meridian Park, and the Kent Station shopping center; being active in the community and attending gatherings like the Kent Cornucopia Days and the Kent International Festival; and participating in events at the Kent Memorial Park. Whether we're working in Kent's East Hill District or representing clients near Meeker Street, we understand what matters to our neighbors and the King County Courts we appeared before. Our local Western Washington experience gives us an edge when defending your case.
With penalties so steep, every robbery charge deserves to be challenged. Our Kent robbery lawyers investigate the details of your case and look for weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, potential violations of your rights, and any flaws in Kent law enforcement's investigation. We'll build a strong defense that protects your future. Call us for a free consultation to learn how we can fight your robbery charges.
Our Kent Robbery Attorneys Can Help You Define Your OptionsIn Washington State, Robbery is defined as taking someone else's property against their will by using violence or intimidation. This means robbery cases are often heavily prosecuted, often resulting in life-altering repercussions, if convicted. Keep in mind that a felony robbery conviction could lead to a lengthy prison sentence and a fortune in fines.
Robbery is theft combined with a violent crime, which makes it far more serious than shoplifting. If a deadly weapon was used in the robbery, the punishments will be even more severe.
If you've been charged with robbery, it is paramount that you contact an attorney as soon as possible. Depending on the nature of the alleged crime, you could spend the rest of your life in prison. Contact one of our Kent robbery lawyers today and take steps to protect your interests.
Many people charged with robbery are rightfully concerned about the prospect of prison time, and are eager to find out if there is any way to have their charges dismissed. Your lawyer will want answers to some basic questions as they get started on your case.
- What was the intent that lead to the robbery charge?
- What were your actions when the alleged crime was committed?
- Do your actions constitute a robbery?
Someone may only be charged with robbery if they intended to steal property, AND used intimidation or violence during the act. The Kent robbery lawyers at the Law Office of Jason S. Newcombe understand that the stakes couldn't be higher, so we will use our more than 30 years of collective experience to minimize your punishments using any legal means available.
Our Kent Robbery Attorneys Offer Reliable Legal CounselRobberies are categorized according to their severity, so you may find the following information useful as you consider your options.
Armed Robberies involve the use of a deadly weapon, like a knife or handgun, and usually involve situations like home or bank robberies.
An Aggravated Assault is charged when a weapon is used to inflict bodily harm to another person. Punishments for an aggravated assault are even more severe, and alleged perpetrators are often charged with multiple offenses.
Attempted Robbery is charged when a robbery results in failure. However, this doesn't mean the prosecutor won't seek a maximum sentence.
Our Kent robbery lawyers need time to thoroughly investigate these cases, because witnesses must be interviewed and a comprehensive examination of the prosecution's case is required.
If you or a loved one has been charged with robbery in Kent, schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers and put our extensive criminal defense experience to work for you.