Fort Worth Robbery Lawyer Dedicated to Protecting Your Rights
Are you or someone you know facing a robbery charge in Fort Worth or a surrounding city in Tarrant County?
If so, you need an experienced Fort Worth Criminal Lawyer to effectively defend you. If you have been charged with robbery in the Fort Worth area, you are likely facing felony charges. If convicted, you could receive life-changing penalties that put your liberty and future at risk. It is critical that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney in Fort Worth who handles robbery charges.
The Fort Worth robbery lawyers from Fulgham Law Firm have decades of combined criminal law experience. We can review your case at no cost and advise you of your rights and options for mounting an effective defense strategy. Contact us today to receive a free consultation.
Why Choose a Fort Worth Robbery Lawyer From Our Firm to Represent You
We started our practice more than 13 years ago in Fort Worth. Since that time, we have added several former prosecutors to our team, so we have invaluable insight into the criminal justice system that enables us to devise effective defense strategies for our clients.
With more than 70 years of collective legal experience among us, our attorneys possess the skills and resources necessary to handle your case and increase your chances of getting a positive outcome. We deliver personalized attention to every case, and you can rely on us to be right there with you each step of the way, protecting your rights and advocating for you to help you obtain the most favorable outcome possible.
For a free case review, contact Fulgham Law Firm today at (817) 877-3030 or contact us online. We're prepared to do all we can to help you fight the robbery charges you face.
What Are the Different Types of Robbery Charges in Texas?
In Texas, the different types of robbery charges are primarily distinguished based on the presence of aggravating factors that can elevate the offense to a higher degree. According to the Texas Penal Code, the primary types of robbery charges in Texas include:
- Robbery: This is the basic offense where a person intentionally or knowingly causes bodily injury to another person or threatens or places another person in fear of imminent bodily injury or death while in the course of committing theft.
Robbery is generally classified as a second-degree felony. Penalties include imprisonment for a term ranging from 2 to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and a fine of up to $10,000. - Aggravated Robbery: Aggravated robbery involves the commission of robbery with additional aggravating factors that increase the severity of the offense. These factors can include:
- Causing serious bodily injury to another person.
- Using or exhibiting a deadly weapon during the commission of the robbery (armed robbery).
- Committing robbery against an elderly person (65 years or older) or a disabled person.
Aggravated robbery is a first-degree felony, which carries more severe penalties than simple robbery. Penalties include imprisonment for a term ranging from 5 to 99 years or life imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000. - Robbery by Threat (No Bodily Injury): In some cases, robbery charges may be filed even if there is no actual bodily injury caused, but the offender threatened the victim with harm. The absence of physical injury does not necessarily mitigate the seriousness of the offense. This can still be charged as a second-degree felony with a possible prison sentence of between 2 and 20 years and fines of up to $10,000.
If authorities charged you with robbery in Fort Worth, contact a criminal defense attorney at Fulgham Law Firm right away to discuss your case at no cost.
Federal Charges Involving Robbery
Robbery is generally considered a state-level offense, and the majority of robbery cases are prosecuted at the state level. However, there are certain circumstances under which robbery or related offenses can become federal crimes. The key factor that may elevate a robbery case to the federal level is if the crime involves a federal interest, occurs on federal property, or happens across state lines. Here are some scenarios in which federal charges for robbery may apply:
- Bank Robbery: Robbery of a bank or other federally insured financial institution is a federal offense. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) typically handles investigations and prosecutions of bank robbery cases.
- Hobbs Act Robbery: The Hobbs Act is a federal statute that criminalizes robbery or extortion that affects interstate commerce. If a robbery has a connection to interstate commerce, it may fall under federal jurisdiction.
- Armed Robbery on Federal Property: If a robbery occurs on federal property, such as a military installation, national park, or other federal facilities, it may be prosecuted at the federal level.
- Carjacking Across State Lines: Carjacking that involves crossing state lines can become a federal offense, as it may impact interstate commerce.
- Use of Firearms in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence: The use of firearms during the commission of a robbery or other violent crime can trigger federal charges under statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 924(c).
Federal penalties for robbery or related offenses can be severe and may include lengthy prison sentences. The exact charges and penalties will depend on the specific federal statutes under which the case is prosecuted.
It's important to note that federal and state jurisdictions are separate, and you could face prosecution for robbery in Texas as well as from the federal government. The decision to pursue federal charges depends on the nature of the offense and the involvement of federal interests. If you or someone you know is facing potential federal charges for robbery, you must consult an experienced criminal defense attorney who is familiar with federal laws and procedures. Federal criminal cases are distinct from state cases, and legal representation by an attorney with federal court experience is essential.
What Should I Do If Arrested on Robbery Charges in Fort Worth?
If you've been arrested on robbery charges in Fort Worth or any other location, it's crucial to approach the situation carefully to protect your rights and build a strong defense. It's natural to feel anxious or scared, but try to remain calm and composed. Resisting arrest or arguing with law enforcement officers can lead to additional charges.
Remember that you have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you in court. You also have the right to an attorney, and you should request an attorney before answering any questions. Avoid discussing the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney. Statements made to friends, family, or others can potentially be used against you.
If possible, make a mental note of the details surrounding the arrest, such as the time, location, and interactions with law enforcement. This information may be useful for your defense. You have the right to refuse searches of your person, vehicle, or property without a warrant. Do not consent to searches without first consulting with an attorney.
Contact a Fort Worth criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest. An attorney can explain the specific charges against you and discuss options for a defense strategy. An attorney can also represent you during all court hearings and at trial.
Contact a Fort Worth Robbery Crimes Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested and charged with robbery in Fort Worth, you need a skilled Fort Worth robbery charges lawyer on your side. A robbery conviction could carry with it the possibility of jail time and hefty fines, and the whole ordeal could cause irreparable damage to your reputation and future.
At Fulgham Law Firm, our goal is to prevent jail time and to achieve a result that helps you clear your record. We have a team of attorneys standing ready to passionately defend you against robbery charges in Texas. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation with a skilled Fort Worth Criminal Attorney.
Call us right now to get help.
(817) 877-3030
We've helped hundreds of people in Texas and we can help you too. We'll set you up with a free conversation with an experienced defense attorney, which will help you know what to do next. Fulgham Hampton Criminal Defense Attorneys serves Fort Worth and Tarrant County areas.
Our Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys at Fulgham Law Firm are available 24/7 to help you.