Robbery Lawyer Michigan

Unarmed robbery, sometimes called strong-arm robbery, occurs when someone takes property through force or threat of force without using a weapon. In Michigan, unarmed robbery is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. These cases often involve allegations of pushing, grabbing, intimidating, or threatening victims during a theft. Common scenarios include purse snatchings where physical contact occurs, shoplifting cases that escalate into physical confrontations with store security, or disputes between individuals that one party characterizes as robbery. We defend against unarmed robbery charges by challenging witness identification, questioning whether force was actually used or merely claimed after the fact, presenting evidence of self-defense, and demonstrating that the incident was a civil dispute rather than a criminal act. In many cases, we can negotiate unarmed robbery charges down to larceny offenses that carry significantly less prison exposure.

Armed robbery in Michigan involves taking property while armed with a dangerous weapon or while the victim believes you’re armed with a dangerous weapon. This is one of the most serious felonies in Michigan’s criminal code, carrying a mandatory minimum sentence and life imprisonment as the maximum penalty. The “weapon” can be a gun, knife, club, or any object used in a way to make the victim fear harm. We’ve successfully defended armed robbery cases by challenging whether a weapon was actually present or displayed, questioning the reliability of witness testimony about weapons, demonstrating that an object wasn’t actually a weapon or wasn’t used as one, and attacking police investigation procedures that violated our clients’ constitutional rights. Because armed robbery charges carry mandatory minimums, early intervention and aggressive defense are critical to avoiding decades in prison.  

Bank robbery is prosecuted under federal law and carries extremely harsh penalties including up to 20 years in federal prison, or up to 25 years if a dangerous weapon was used. If you’re facing bank robbery charges, you need a bank robbery attorney in Michigan who understands both federal criminal procedure and how to challenge the government’s case. Federal prosecutors have vast resources and typically build cases over months using surveillance video, forensic evidence, confidential informants, and financial transaction records. We defend federal bank robbery cases by challenging the legality of searches and seizures, questioning witness identifications, demonstrating lack of intent, and negotiating with federal prosecutors for reduced charges or sentencing departures. Many bank robbery cases in the Lansing area are prosecuted in the federal Western District of Michigan, which requires specific knowledge of federal judges and assistant U.S. attorneys.

Carjacking involves taking a motor vehicle from someone by force or intimidation and is charged as a felony in Michigan with penalties up to life imprisonment. These cases often involve disputed facts about what actually happened, whether force was used or threatened, and whether the accused person had permission to take the vehicle. We’ve successfully defended carjacking allegations by presenting evidence that the vehicle was taken with permission during a domestic dispute, demonstrating that no force or threats were used, showing that the alleged victim fabricated the claim for insurance purposes, and challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove each element beyond reasonable doubt. Carjacking charges are frequently linked to other serious offenses like gun crimes or kidnapping, making experienced legal representation essential.

When robbery occurs during an unlawful entry into a building, Michigan prosecutors often charge both robbery and home invasion, creating overlapping charges with compounding penalties. Home invasion in the first degree combined with robbery can result in decades of prison time. These cases require careful analysis of what actually occurred, whether the entry was truly unlawful, whether force was used during the taking of property versus during some other interaction, and whether the prosecution can prove all elements of both crimes. We challenge these compound charges by demonstrating that only one crime occurred, that the entry was lawful, or that property disputes between people with legitimate access to a residence don’t constitute robbery.

Some Michigan robbery cases involve “sudden snatching” where property is taken quickly without prolonged contact but with enough force to overcome the victim’s resistance. Examples include grabbing a phone from someone’s hand, yanking a necklace from someone’s neck, or pulling a bag from someone’s grasp with enough force to cause them to stumble. Prosecutors argue these incidents constitute robbery rather than larceny because force was used to overcome resistance. We defend these cases by demonstrating that no actual force was used or that the contact was incidental rather than forceful, arguing for reduction to larceny charges that carry significantly less prison time.

Attempted robbery charges arise when someone takes substantial steps toward committing a robbery but doesn’t complete the crime. Michigan law allows prosecution for attempt even when no property was actually taken, as long as the prosecution can prove you intended to commit robbery and took a direct step toward doing so. These cases often involve undercover operations, interrupted crimes, or situations where the accused person allegedly displayed a weapon or made threats but didn’t succeed in taking property. We defend attempted robbery cases by challenging whether there was actual intent to commit robbery, demonstrating that actions were misinterpreted or taken out of context, and showing that whatever occurred doesn’t meet the legal definition of attempt.

We immediately examine whether your Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable search and seizure were violated, whether your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent was honored, and whether your Sixth Amendment right to counsel was respected. If police violated your constitutional rights during investigation, arrest, interrogation, or evidence gathering, we file motions to suppress evidence and statements that can result in dismissal of charges.

Robbery cases often depend on eyewitness identification and victim testimony. We conduct independent interviews, obtain surveillance footage, investigate witness backgrounds for bias or motive to lie, and consult with experts on eyewitness identification reliability. Many robbery convictions are later overturned based on mistaken identification, making this a critical component of defense.

We immediately work to preserve surveillance video, social media evidence, cell phone location data, and other digital evidence that may prove your innocence or cast doubt on the prosecution’s theory. We also conduct scene examinations to identify physical evidence contradicting witness statements or prosecution theories.

We investigate whether the incident was actually a civil dispute over property ownership, whether alleged force was actually self-defense, whether you were misidentified as the perpetrator, or whether the allegations are fabricated for insurance fraud or revenge purposes. Presenting a coherent alternative explanation creates reasonable doubt.

When appropriate, we negotiate with Ingham County prosecutors for reduced charges, dismissal of armed robbery in favor of unarmed robbery, reduction to larceny offenses, or favorable plea agreements that minimize prison exposure.

We prepare every case for trial from day one, conducting mock cross-examinations, preparing demonstrative evidence, retaining expert witnesses when needed, and developing compelling opening statements and closing arguments. Prosecutors know when defense attorneys are truly prepared for trial, and that knowledge influences their willingness to offer reasonable plea agreements.

Robbery victims are often traumatized and see their attacker only briefly, sometimes in poor lighting or from a distance. Eyewitness identification is notoriously unreliable, and we challenge identifications through alibi evidence, expert testimony on memory and perception, inconsistencies in witness descriptions, and lack of physical evidence connecting you to the crime.

Robbery requires specific intent to permanently deprive someone of property. If you intended only to borrow property, had a good faith belief you had a right to the property, or took property without realizing someone else would perceive your actions as threatening, you may lack the mental state required for robbery conviction.

If the prosecution cannot prove you used actual force or put the victim in reasonable fear, the crime may be larceny rather than robbery. We examine whether any physical contact was incidental rather than forceful and whether alleged threats were actually made or merely inferred by a nervous victim.

Some robbery accusations arise from insurance fraud schemes, revenge for unrelated disputes, or attempts to avoid civil liability. We investigate the alleged victim’s background, financial situation, relationship to you, and potential motives for fabrication.

If you were defending yourself from an attacker and took property during or after a confrontation, self-defense may be a complete defense to robbery charges. Michigan law allows reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent harm.

If police conducted illegal searches, seized evidence without probable cause, coerced your confession, or violated your Miranda rights, we file suppression motions that can result in dismissal of charges when critical evidence is excluded.

Police need probable cause and typically a warrant to search your home, vehicle, or person for evidence of robbery. If police violated search and seizure rules, any evidence they gathered may be inadmissible at trial, potentially destroying the prosecution’s case. Don’t consent to searches even if police claim they’ll get a warrant anyway, and don’t let police pressure you into “just having a look around.”

You have an absolute right to remain silent during police questioning. Robbery cases in Lansing often involve recorded interrogations where police use sophisticated techniques to elicit incriminating statements. Police may claim they just want to hear your side, suggest they’ll help you if you cooperate, or imply that remaining silent makes you look guilty. These are tactics designed to gather evidence. Exercise your right to silence immediately and clearly request an attorney.

You have the right to have an attorney present during questioning and at every critical stage of your case. Once you invoke your right to counsel, police must stop questioning you. Don’t let anyone convince you that only guilty people need lawyers or that requesting counsel will make you look bad. Every person facing serious criminal charges needs experienced legal representation regardless of guilt or innocence.

Michigan law also provides specific procedural protections during arrest and prosecution. You must be arraigned before a judge within 48 hours of arrest, informed of the charges against you, and advised of your rights. You have the right to a preliminary examination in felony cases where the prosecution must present evidence establishing probable cause that you committed the offense. You have the right to a jury trial where the prosecution must prove every element of robbery beyond a reasonable doubt. These procedural rights provide important opportunities to challenge the prosecution’s case at multiple stages.

Most robbery cases begin with arrest, either at the scene or after a warrant is issued following investigation. You’ll be taken to the Lansing Police Department or Ingham County Jail for booking, fingerprinting, and processing. Arraignment occurs within 48 hours of arrest, typically at the 54A District Court or 54B District Court depending on where the alleged offense occurred. At arraignment, the judge informs you of charges, appoints counsel if you qualify for a public defender, and sets bond. Bond determinations consider the seriousness of charges, your criminal history, ties to the community, and flight risk.

In felony robbery cases, you have the right to a preliminary examination within 14 days of arraignment if you’re in custody or within 21 days if you’re released on bond. The preliminary exam occurs in district court and requires the prosecution to present evidence establishing probable cause that you committed the offense. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence. The preliminary exam provides an early opportunity to evaluate the prosecution’s case, lock witnesses into testimony, and sometimes negotiate favorable resolutions. If the judge finds probable cause, your case is bound over to circuit court.

Cases bound over from district court are arraigned in the Ingham County Circuit Court, where you enter a formal plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Most defendants plead not guilty to preserve all defense options. The circuit court judge sets a trial date and may address bond modifications.

The months between arraignment and trial involve discovery (exchanging evidence with the prosecution), motion practice (filing legal challenges to evidence or procedures), and pretrial conferences where attorneys negotiate potential plea agreements. This is when your robbery lawyer files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, dismiss charges based on insufficient evidence, or exclude inadmissible statements. Success on these motions can lead to dismissal or significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.

If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to jury trial in circuit court. Trials in robbery cases typically last several days and involve witness testimony, physical evidence, expert testimony, and legal arguments. The prosecution must prove every element of robbery beyond a reasonable doubt. Your attorney presents your defense through cross-examination, defense witnesses, and closing arguments emphasizing reasonable doubt. Jury verdicts must be unanimous.

If convicted after trial or following a guilty plea, sentencing typically occurs several weeks later after a presentence investigation report is completed. The judge considers sentencing guidelines, aggravating and mitigating factors, victim impact statements, and arguments from attorneys before imposing sentence.

No, absolutely not. Exercise your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent immediately and request an attorney.

Police may suggest that talking will help your case or that only guilty people need lawyers, but these are interrogation tactics. Robbery cases routinely involve recorded interrogations where police use sophisticated psychological techniques to elicit incriminating statements even from innocent people. Everything you say will be analyzed by prosecutors and used against you at trial. The only statement you should make is “I’m invoking my right to remain silent and I want to speak with my attorney.” Contact a robbery lawyer in Michigan immediately before any police contact.

Prison is likely if you’re convicted of robbery in Michigan, though the specific sentence depends on numerous factors.

Unarmed robbery carries up to 15 years in prison, while armed robbery carries up to life imprisonment with a mandatory two-year consecutive sentence if a firearm was involved. First-time offenders with strong mitigation evidence may receive shorter sentences or alternatives to prison in some cases, but robbery is considered a serious violent felony and judges typically impose substantial incarceration. Avoiding conviction entirely through dismissal, acquittal, or reduction to non-robbery charges is the best outcome, making aggressive defense critical.

Robbery cases in Lansing typically take six months to two years from arrest to resolution, though timelines vary based on case complexity, court schedules, and whether the case goes to trial.

Preliminary examination occurs within two to three weeks of arrest. Arraignment in circuit court follows about a month later. Pretrial motion practice and negotiation can last several months. Trials are typically scheduled six to twelve months after circuit court arraignment. Cases that resolve through plea agreements typically conclude faster than cases that proceed to trial. Your attorney can provide more specific timelines based on your particular situation and the courts involved.

Yes, experienced criminal defense attorneys successfully achieve dismissals and charge reductions in robbery cases throughout Michigan.

Charges may be dismissed based on constitutional violations during investigation, lack of probable cause, witness credibility problems, or successful suppression of key evidence. Charges are often reduced from armed robbery to unarmed robbery or from robbery to larceny through negotiation when defense attorneys demonstrate weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Success depends on the specific facts, evidence, and quality of legal representation. Early involvement of a skilled robbery attorney in Michigan maximizes prospects for favorable outcomes.

Your first court appearance is arraignment, which occurs within 48 hours of arrest at the 54A District Court or 54B District Court in the Lansing area. The judge informs you of the robbery charges, asks if you need a court-appointed attorney if you can’t afford private counsel, and sets bond conditions for your release.

The judge considers factors like charge severity, criminal history, community ties, and flight risk when determining bond. You’ll receive paperwork explaining charges and your next court date. Preliminary examination for felony robbery charges typically occurs within two to three weeks.

Having an attorney at arraignment helps secure more favorable bond conditions and begin building your defense immediately.

Yes, robbery convictions create permanent felony criminal records that appear on background checks and significantly impact employment, housing, professional licensing, and numerous other life opportunities.

Michigan allows expungement (setting aside) of some felony convictions, but you must wait five years after completing your sentence for serious felonies, and robbery convictions may not be eligible depending on the specific circumstances. Some convictions can never be expunged. This is why avoiding conviction through dismissal, acquittal, or charge reduction is so critical.

A robbery conviction follows you for life and affects opportunities decades into the future.

This decision depends on the strength of the evidence against you, the specific plea offer, your criminal history, constitutional issues in your case, and your tolerance for trial risk versus certainty of a plea outcome.

Your attorney should thoroughly investigate your case, file all appropriate motions, and negotiate the best possible plea offer before advising you on this decision. Sometimes going to trial is clearly the right choice when the evidence is weak or constitutional violations require suppression of key evidence. Other times accepting a favorable plea agreement that significantly reduces charges or sentencing exposure is the wise choice. This is one of the most important decisions in your case and should be made only after careful consultation with your Michigan robbery lawyer.

Yes, absolutely. Robbery is one of the most serious felonies in Michigan with potential life imprisonment.

The court process is complex, the stakes are enormous, and prosecutors have vast resources and experience. Attempting to defend yourself or relying on an overworked public defender with hundreds of cases significantly increases your risk of conviction and harsh sentencing. Experienced private criminal defense attorneys have the time, resources, and expertise to thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, file critical motions, and negotiate from a position of strength. The cost of experienced legal representation is insignificant compared to the cost of years or decades in prison. Contact a robbery attorney in Michigan immediately.

Not usually. Once robbery charges are filed, the decision to proceed rests with the prosecutor, not the alleged victim.

Prosecutors may consider the victim’s wishes, but they often proceed with prosecution even when victims are uncooperative because robbery is considered a crime against society, not just against the individual victim. However, a victim’s unwillingness to cooperate can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case and provide leverage for dismissal or reduced charges. Your attorney can assess how victim cooperation issues affect your specific case and develop strategy accordingly.

Armed robbery involves taking property while armed with a dangerous weapon or while the victim believes you’re armed, and carries up to life imprisonment plus mandatory consecutive time for felony firearm. Unarmed robbery involves taking property through force or threat without a weapon and carries up to 15 years.

The difference in penalties is dramatic. Whether a weapon was actually present, whether it was displayed, and whether the victim actually saw a weapon are critical factual issues that determine which charge applies. Sometimes what prosecutors charge as armed robbery can be defended or negotiated down to unarmed robbery, making a substantial difference in potential sentencing.