El Dorado Hills Robbery Defense Lawyer

Experienced & Knowledgeable Defense Against Robbery Charges

Being charged with robbery is one of the most serious criminal accusations in California. A conviction can lead to years in prison, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record that impacts your future. If you or a loved one is facing robbery charges in El Dorado Hills, you must secure the help of our El Dorado Hills robbery defense attorney from Walsh Law. Our firm is dedicated to protecting your rights, challenging the prosecution’s evidence, and fighting for the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact us at (916) 610-3558 for a confidential consultation.

What is Robbery?

Under California Penal Code §211, robbery is defined as the unlawful taking of personal property from another person, in their immediate presence, against their will, by means of force or fear. Unlike theft, which involves simply taking property, robbery involves direct confrontation with a victim and the use of intimidation or violence.

Key elements of robbery include:

• Taking property that belongs to someone else
• From their immediate possession or presence
• Against their will
• By using force, violence, or fear of injury

Because of the violent nature of this crime, robbery is classified as a felony offense in California.

Common Forms of Robbery

Robbery can occur in many different circumstances. Some of the most common forms include:

Armed Robbery

Involves the use of a weapon, such as a gun or knife, to threaten or intimidate the victim. Armed robbery is prosecuted especially harshly due to the potential for serious injury or death.

Strong-Arm Robbery

Occurs when the suspect uses physical force, such as pushing, hitting, or restraining the victim, to take property. No weapon is used, but violence or intimidation is still present.

Carjacking

A specific type of robbery involving the theft of a vehicle directly from a driver or passenger by force or fear. Carjacking carries separate and severe penalties under California law.

Robbery in a Business or Store

Sometimes referred to as a “hold-up,” this occurs when property is stolen directly from an employee or business during working hours.

Street Robbery or “Mugging”

This involves forcefully taking money, jewelry, or other valuables from someone in a public place, often through threats or physical assault.

Robbery Penalties in California

Robbery charges are divided into two categories: first-degree robbery and second-degree robbery.

First-Degree Robbery

This occurs when the robbery takes place:

• Inside an inhabited home, apartment, or building
• Against a driver or passenger of a vehicle (carjacking)
• Against someone using or right after using an ATM

Penalties for first-degree robbery:

• 3, 4, or 6 years in California state prison
• If committed with two or more people in an inhabited dwelling, penalties can increase to 3, 6, or 9 years
• Felony probation, restitution, and fines up to $10,000 may also apply

Second-Degree Robbery

Covers all other types of robbery not classified as first-degree.

Penalties for second-degree robbery:

• 2, 3, or 5 years in state prison
• Felony probation and restitution orders

Sentence Enhancements

Additional penalties may apply if:

• A firearm was used (adding 10–25 years or life under California’s “10-20-life” law)
• The robbery caused serious bodily injury
• The defendant has prior felony convictions

Legal Defenses to Robbery Charges

At Walsh Law, we know that every case is unique. Our El Dorado Hills robbery defense attorney can build a defense strategy based on the facts of your case. Common defenses include:

Mistaken Identity

Robberies often occur under stressful, fast-moving circumstances, and witnesses may misidentify suspects. Challenging eyewitness credibility and examining surveillance footage can weaken the prosecution’s case.

Lack of Intent

To convict, prosecutors must prove intent to permanently deprive the victim of their property. If intent cannot be established, robbery charges may be reduced or dismissed.

False Accusations

It is not uncommon for individuals to be wrongly accused of robbery out of anger, revenge, or mistaken belief. A strong defense can expose false claims.

No Use of Force or Fear

If the prosecution cannot prove that force, violence, or intimidation was used, the offense may be downgraded to theft rather than robbery.

Insufficient Evidence

Robbery cases rely heavily on physical evidence, witness testimony, or video recordings. If evidence is weak, unreliable, or obtained unlawfully, charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Robbery FAQs

Is robbery always a felony in California?

Yes. Robbery is classified strictly as a felony under California law. Unlike theft, there is no misdemeanor form of robbery.

Can a robbery conviction be expunged?

In some cases, yes—if the defendant successfully completes probation. However, because robbery is a serious violent felony, expungement may be more difficult and requires skilled legal representation.

What if a weapon was not used?

Even if no weapon was involved, robbery is still a felony offense. However, the absence of a weapon may help reduce sentencing severity.

How is robbery different from burglary?

Robbery involves directly taking property from a person through force or fear, while burglary involves entering a structure with intent to commit theft or another felony.

Why should I hire a robbery defense lawyer?

Robbery cases carry severe, life-altering penalties. An experienced lawyer can negotiate reduced charges, challenge evidence, and fight for alternative sentencing options.

Speak With an Experienced El Dorado Hills Robbery Defense Lawyer

A robbery charge can leave you facing years behind bars, financial hardship, and lasting damage to your reputation. You should not face these challenges alone. At Walsh Law, our skilled team is committed to protecting your rights and building a powerful defense.

If you or someone you love has been accused of robbery in El Dorado Hills, CA, contact Walsh Law today for a confidential consultation.