Robbery

Robbery Is a Serious Charge That Can Result in Lengthy Prison Sentences – Chicago Robbery Attorney Andrew M. Weisberg Can Help

Robbery is one of the most serious theft-related offenses under Illinois law and is prosecuted aggressively in Chicago and throughout Cook County. A robbery conviction can result in years or even decades in prison, along with a permanent felony record that can affect your employment opportunities, housing options, and future for the rest of your life. If you or a loved one has been charged with robbery in Chicago, it is critical to act quickly and obtain experienced legal representation.

Andrew M. Weisberg is a Chicago criminal defense attorney and former Cook County prosecutor who has extensive experience defending individuals accused of robbery and other serious felony offenses. He understands how robbery cases are investigated and prosecuted and uses that knowledge to build strong defenses designed to protect his clients’ rights and futures.

If you are facing robbery charges in Chicago or Cook County, call (773) 908-9811 for a free consultation.

Understanding Robbery Under Illinois Law

Under Illinois law, robbery is defined by 720 ILCS 5/18-1 as knowingly taking property from another person by the use of force or by threatening the imminent use of force. Unlike ordinary theft, robbery involves a direct confrontation with another person, which is why the law treats it as a violent felony rather than a property crime.

Robbery charges often arise from situations such as:

• Alleged street robberies
• Altercations involving the taking of property
• Disputes between acquaintances or former partners
• Incidents involving alleged threats or intimidation
• Theft accusations involving physical contact
• Shoplifting cases where force is alleged

Even relatively minor physical contact can sometimes lead to robbery charges if prosecutors claim that force was used during the taking of property. Because of this broad interpretation, robbery charges are sometimes filed in cases that might otherwise have been simple theft cases.

Types of Robbery Charges in Illinois

Illinois law recognizes several different robbery-related offenses. The specific charge you face can dramatically affect the potential penalties and the strategy used in your defense.

Robbery – 720 ILCS 5/18-1

Standard robbery is typically charged as a Class 2 felony, punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.

In certain situations, robbery can be enhanced to a Class 1 felony, which carries a sentencing range of 4 to 15 years in prison. These enhancements may apply when the alleged offense involves elderly victims, individuals with disabilities, or protected locations such as schools or places of worship.

Although probation may be possible in some robbery cases, prison sentences are common, especially when the allegations involve violence or repeat offenses.

Aggravated Robbery – 720 ILCS 5/18-5

Aggravated robbery involves taking property from another person while indicating, either verbally or through actions, that you possess a weapon even if no weapon is actually present.

For example, a person who keeps a hand in a pocket and suggests that they have a gun may be charged with aggravated robbery even if no weapon exists.

Aggravated robbery is generally charged as a Class 1 felony, carrying potential penalties of 4 to 15 years in prison.

Armed Robbery – 720 ILCS 5/18-2

Armed robbery is among the most serious robbery-related offenses. This charge applies when a person commits robbery while armed with a dangerous weapon.

Armed robbery is classified as a Class X felony, which carries a sentencing range of 6 to 30 years in prison with no possibility of probation.

If a firearm is involved, Illinois law imposes mandatory sentencing enhancements:

• 15 additional years if a firearm was possessed
• 20 additional years if a firearm was discharged
• 25 years to natural life if someone was seriously injured or killed

These enhancements can result in extremely long prison sentences even for individuals with no prior criminal history.

Vehicular Hijacking – 720 ILCS 5/18-3

Vehicular hijacking occurs when a motor vehicle is taken from a person by force or threat of force.

Vehicular hijacking is typically charged as a Class 1 felony, punishable by 4 to 15 years in prison.

Aggravated Vehicular Hijacking – 720 ILCS 5/18-4

Aggravated vehicular hijacking applies when additional aggravating factors are present, such as:

• Use of a weapon
• A victim under age 16 being present
• Bodily harm to a victim

Aggravated vehicular hijacking is a Class X felony punishable by 6 to 30 years in prison, with firearm enhancements that can increase the sentence substantially.

How Robbery Cases Are Prosecuted in Chicago

Robbery cases in Chicago often rely heavily on eyewitness testimony and identification evidence. Police investigations may include:

• Witness statements
• Surveillance video
• Police reports
• Photo arrays or lineups
• Cell phone evidence
• Physical evidence

Eyewitness identification is often a key part of robbery prosecutions, but it can also be unreliable. Stressful situations, poor lighting conditions, and brief encounters can lead to mistaken identifications.

Andrew M. Weisberg carefully reviews identification procedures and witness testimony to determine whether errors or inconsistencies exist. Challenging identification evidence can be one of the most effective ways to defend robbery charges.

Potential Consequences of a Robbery Conviction

A robbery conviction can have serious and long-lasting consequences beyond prison time.

A felony robbery conviction can result in:

• Years or decades in prison
• A permanent felony criminal record
• Loss of firearm rights
• Difficulty finding employment
• Housing challenges
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Damage to professional licenses
• Long-term financial consequences

Because robbery is considered a violent offense, the consequences can be particularly severe.

For many individuals, avoiding a robbery conviction is critical to protecting their future.

Defending Against Robbery Charges

Successfully defending robbery charges requires a careful and strategic approach. Andrew M. Weisberg thoroughly investigates each case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and develop the strongest possible defense.

One common defense involves challenging the allegation that force or threats were used. Without proof of force or intimidation, the charge may be reduced to a lesser offense such as theft.

Another important defense involves mistaken identity. Many robbery cases depend on eyewitness identification, and errors in identification procedures can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.

Andrew also examines whether the evidence supports the allegations at all. Surveillance footage, witness statements, and physical evidence sometimes contradict the claims made in police reports.

In some cases, negotiations with prosecutors can lead to reduced charges that avoid the harsh penalties associated with robbery convictions.

How Andrew M. Weisberg Can Help

Andrew M. Weisberg brings years of experience to robbery cases, including his background as a former Cook County prosecutor. This experience allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s approach and develop effective defense strategies.

Andrew works directly with his clients and provides clear communication throughout the legal process. He understands how stressful robbery charges can be and works to guide clients through each stage of their case.

Andrew’s representation includes:

• Careful review of police reports and evidence
• Investigation of witness statements
• Analysis of video and physical evidence
• Strategic motion practice
• Negotiation with prosecutors
• Trial preparation when necessary

His goal in every robbery case is to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that means dismissal, reduction of charges, or acquittal at trial.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Robbery Defense Lawyer

When facing robbery charges in Chicago, choosing the right defense attorney is critical. Andrew M. Weisberg offers the advantage of experience on both sides of the courtroom as a former prosecutor and criminal defense attorney.

Clients benefit from:

• Former Cook County prosecutor experience
• Extensive courtroom experience
• Strong negotiation skills
• Personalized representation
• Direct communication with the attorney handling the case
• Strategic and aggressive defense

Andrew understands the high stakes involved in robbery cases and is committed to protecting his clients’ rights and futures.

Contact Chicago Robbery Attorney Andrew M. Weisberg

If you or a loved one has been charged with robbery in Chicago or Cook County, experienced legal representation can make a crucial difference. Robbery charges carry severe penalties, but a strong defense can help protect your freedom and your future.

Call (773) 908-9811 today for a free consultation, or fill out the online contact form for a free case review, and Mr. Weisberg will get back to you quickly.

The sooner you speak with an experienced Chicago robbery defense attorney, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Andrew M. Weisberg is prepared to fight for your rights and provide the aggressive defense you need.