Understanding First-Degree Robbery Charges in Michigan

Car jacking at night visual concept for a criminal defense blog discussing first degree robbery charges.

Many people confuse the crimes of robbery and theft. In Michigan, robbery is a separate criminal charge that involves the threat or use of physical force. Charges of robbery are serious, and the penalties are severe.

If you were charged with robbery or another theft crime in Michigan, you need experienced, high-quality legal representation. Michigan criminal defense attorney Robert Elmen is a highly sought-after criminal defense attorney representing people in Ann Arbor and throughout Michigan. Contact Elmen Legal today to schedule a free and confidential appointment to discuss your situation and begin preparing your defense.

Robbery vs. Theft in Michigan

In Michigan, the crime of simple theft is known as larceny. Larceny occurs when someone takes another person’s property.

When a theft involves violence or the threat of violence, the crime is elevated to robbery. Robbery is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Aggravated robbery is an even more serious crime that occurs when a person commits theft while armed with a dangerous weapon, using an object that appears to be a dangerous weapon, or falsely claims to have a dangerous weapon. Armed robbery is punishable by a sentence of life in prison.

Carjacking is the crime of robbing a vehicle. It is also punishable by life in prison.

Robbery, aggravated robbery, and carjacking are violent felony offenses that are punished severely. If you were charged with first-degree robbery or another theft offense, you need experienced, high-quality legal representation. Elmen Legal can help.

Do You Need an Attorney for Robbery Charges?

Robbery charges are serious, and you face 15 years to life in prison if you are convicted.

Elmen Legal understands the serious nature of a robbery charge and the devastating effect a conviction can have. Attorney Elmen has a proven track record of success defending people against charges of robbery and other violent crimes.

What To Do If You Are Facing a First-Degree Robbery Charge

Building a comprehensive and compelling defense against robbery charges requires a thoughtful and strategic approach.

  • If you are arrested on suspicion of robbery, do not speak to law enforcement officials without legal representation. Politely but firmly explain that you are asserting your right to remain silent and ask to speak to an attorney.
  • Contact Elmen Legal immediately. Attorney Elmen can help you understand the charges against you, provide important legal advice, and help you avoid saying something that could incriminate you.

How to Defend Against Charges of First-Degree Robbery

Building a compelling defense against robbery charges requires skill, tenacity, and expertise.

  • Elmen Legal can carefully review the facts of your case to identify any procedural errors or constitutional violations that could benefit your case.
  • When appropriate, Attorney Elmen will file a Motion to Suppress Evidence that seeks to have illegally obtained evidence excluded from consideration in your case. If successful, any unlawfully obtained evidence cannot be used against you.
  • Attorney Elmen will also negotiate with prosecutors to advocate for reduced charges, less severe sentencing, or an alternative resolution that might be more favorable.
  • When trial is the only option, Elmen Legal has the skills and experience to mount a vigorous defense. Attorney Elmen is meticulously prepared and will thoroughly investigate the charges against you to craft a compelling legal defense. At trial, he will vigorously question the prosecutor’s witnesses, challenge the state’s theory of the case, and fight for a Not Guilty verdict.

How Elmen Legal Can Help

Elmen Legal is an experienced criminal defense law firm serving clients in Ann Arbor and throughout Michigan. Attorney Elmen is deeply committed to protecting the rights of the accused and a staunch believer in due process and the presumption of innocence. He will protect your rights and fight to ensure you are not convicted of something you did not do. He will hold the prosecutor to their burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt and work to obtain the best result he can in your circumstances.

Contact Elmen Legal Today

Robbery charges must be taken seriously. Call (734) 707-8915 or contact Elmen Legal today for knowledgeable legal advice and to begin preparing your defense.