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Los Angeles Mugging Defense Lawyers 
Mugging / Robbery
Mugging, or robbery, is very different from other theft crimes because of the presence of the victim and fear. The element of fear and force makes robbery charges very serious and the resulting penalties particularly harsh. Anyone charged with mugging in Los Angeles would be well-advised to seek the counsel of an experienced LA robbery defense attorney.
California Penal Code 211 – Robbery
California Penal Code 211 states that, "Robbery is the felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from his person or immediate presence, and against his will, accomplished by means of force or fear."
What differentiates robbing or mugging from other theft crimes such grand theft or burglary is the physical presence of the victim. Burglary occurs when someone enters a property with the intent to commit a crime. Mugging is when property is taken directly from someone through threat of violence or actual violence.
The Penalties
Robbery carries some of the most severe penalties of any theft crime because of the emotional and physical pain the victim may endure. Mugging is a felony offense, which carries with it a penalty of two to nine years in state prison depending upon the specifics of the case. For example, stealing property from a home, commercial vehicle or from someone at an automated teller machine is considered a first-degree robbery and they carry the harshest penalties.
First-degree robbery charges may carry three-, six- or nine-year state prison sentences. Second-degree robbery may result in two, three or five years in state prison. The number of victims, the presence of violence and the criminal history of the defendant may all play a role in the charges. The presence of a weapon such as a gun or a knife or gang involvement may result in "enhancements" or additional charges.
Proving a California Mugging Case
There are five elements of the crime that must be present for a prosecutor to prove a mugging case:
- The defendant took property that did not belong to him or her.
- The property was taken directly from someone while they were present.
- The property was taken against his or her will.
- The defendant used force or verbal threats of violence to take the item.
- The defendant did not intend to return the property for an extended period of time.
There are several possible defenses in a mugging case including mistaken identity and possible misunderstanding. If you or a loved one has been charged with mugging or robbery, remember, you are facing a number of serious consequences including a lengthy prison time and the stigma of being a convicted felony for the rest of your life. Please do not let this happen to you.
If you have been accused of mugging, please contact the experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP for a free and comprehensive consultation. Our formidable defense team consists of former prosecutors and government investigators. We have a thorough and intimate understanding of the criminal justice system, which we will put to good use for your benefit. Call us today to discuss your case.
If you have been arrested for a mugging offense then please call us immediately for a FREE CONSULTATION at (888) 579-4844.
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