There are three degrees of robbery offenses in Minnesota; Simple Robbery, Aggravated Robbery in the Second Degree, and Aggravated Robbery in the First Degree.  All three charges are felony level offenses and carry serious consequences. An experienced Minnesota criminal defense lawyer can make the difference between freedom and imprisonment.

Simple Robbery occurs when a person takes personal property from another knowing that he is not entitled to the property and uses or threatens to use force against the person to in order to overcome any resistance from the person in taking or carrying away the property. On a conviction for Simple Robbery, a person may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than 10 years and to a fine of not more than $20,000.00.

Aggravated Robbery in the Second Degree occurs when a person commits a robbery and implies to the victim, by word or act, that he is in possession of a dangerous weapon. On a conviction for this offense, a person may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than 15 years and to  payment of a fine of not more than $30,000.00.

Aggravated Robbery in the First Degree is the most serious offense and occurs when a person who commits the robbery is armed with a dangerous weapon or inflicts bodily harm upon the robbery victim. A conviction for Aggravated Robbery in the First Degree carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years and a fine not to exceed $35,000.00.

Are there defenses to a robbery charge? Yes, mistaken identity is a common defense. The alleged victim may have mistakenly selected you as the robber from a suggestive lineup. An alibi witness may testify that you were at a different location at the time of the crime and provide a basis for an acquittal. This may be a case where you withdrew you participation with others in the robbery before taking a substantial step towards the completion of the crime.

With stakes this high, you will need to hire an experienced Minnesota criminal defense Attorney. I have 36 years of criminal defense experience and have won an acquittal for my client on a charge of Aggravated Robbery in the First Degree. Call  (612) 339-1024 NOW for a free phone consultation and peace of mind.