An armed robbery charge in Florida is a first-degree felony punishable by 10+ years in prison—even for first-time offenders. At Russo Law & Advocacy, Dominique Russo defends clients against strong-arm robbery, felony robbery, and federal violent crime charges in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. We challenge witness misidentifications, illegal police stops, and flawed evidence to protect your future.
Our Florida Armed Robbery Attorney Is There for You
Robbery cases hinge on intent, force, and weapon use—all elements prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Whether you’re accused of strong-arm robbery (no weapon) or armed robbery with a firearm, we dissect police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements to dismantle the state’s case.
Is Robbery a Felony in Florida?
Yes—all robbery charges are felonies. Armed robbery (FS § 812.13) is a first-degree felony with a 10-year minimum prison sentence if a weapon was used.
Defending Against Strong-Arm Robbery Charges
Strong-arm robbery (no weapon) still carries up to 15 years in prison. We argue lack of intent or mistaken identity, common in Miami store surveillance cases.
Federal vs. State Robbery Charges
Most robberies are state crimes, but bank robberies or interstate crimes become federal cases (18 U.S.C. § 2113). Federal penalties are harsher—we negotiate with U.S. Attorneys early.
Florida Armed Robbery Laws (FS § 812.13)
Under Florida law, robbery requires:
- Taking property by force/intimidation
- Intent to permanently deprive the victim
- Use of a weapon (for armed robbery)
Penalties escalate based on:
- Weapon type (firearm = 10-year minimum)
- Injury to victim (enhanced charges)
- Prior felonies (Habitual Offender = life sentence)
Types of Robbery Charges We Handle
Armed Robbery with a Firearm
Mandatory 10-year sentence under Florida’s 10-20-Life law. We challenge ballistics reports and ‘weapon possession’ evidence.
Strong-Arm Robbery
No weapon? Prosecutors must prove force or fear. We attack weak witness IDs—common in gas station or ATM cases.
Home Invasion Robbery
A first-degree felony (even unarmed). We argue consent or lack of forced entry.
Key Defenses in Robbery Cases
- Misidentification: Eyewitnesses are wrong 70% of time (Miami-Dade stats).
- No Weapon Present: Downgrading armed to strong-arm robbery.
- Alibi Evidence: Cell records, surveillance footage proving you elsewhere.
- Illegal Stop: If police lacked probable cause for arrest.
Steps in a Florida Robbery Case
- Arrest & Bond Hearing (Robbery = no bond in some cases—we fight for release.)
- Evidence Review (Bodycams, 911 calls, police reports.)
- Plea Negotiations (Seeking reduced charges like grand theft.)
- Trial (Juries distrust police testimony in Broward robbery cases.)
Why You Need a Robbery Specialist
Prosecutors overcharge robbery cases to force pleas. Dominique Russo’s trial record in Palm Beach and Miami courts gets charges dropped or reduced.
Robbery Charges FAQs
What’s the difference between robbery and theft?
Robbery requires force/fear; theft doesn’t. Penalties are far worse for robbery.
Is armed robbery a federal crime?
Only if it crosses state lines (e.g., bank robbery). Most cases are state charges.
Contact Our Florida Robbery Defense Attorney
Time is critical—witness memories fade. Call Russo Law & Advocacy 24/7: (305) 209-5301. Serving Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach.
