What Are the Best Defenses Against Armed Robbery Charges in Michigan?

Robbery is defined as the stealing or attempted stealing of property from another person by use of violence or the threat of violence. Armed robbery is the same crime but with the use of a weapon or a deadly weapon. If you are facing charges related to armed robbery, a Marquette theft lawyer can offer representation and help you navigate the upcoming legal proceedings.

Is Armed Robbery a Felony in Michigan?

Armed robbery is a severe violent crime taken seriously across the United States. In Michigan, it is considered a capital offense which means an armed robbery conviction can be punishable by life in prison. The extensive penalties are why you must formulate a solid defense when being charged with armed robbery.

What Are Some Defense Options?

Facing charges of this severity can be overwhelming, but you are not at the end of your rope yet. There are a few defense options that you can potentially use when on trial for armed robbery. Depending on the specific circumstances of your situation the following defenses may have a varying success rate.

1. Alibi: If you are innocent, you might have an alibi which is a claim that you could not have committed the crime because you were elsewhere when it took place. If you were misidentified by a witness and you can find a solid alibi in the form of photos, surveillance cameras, or eyewitnesses, it can be an effective defense.
2. Intoxication: It may surprise some to know that courts can be more lenient with a defendant if they were intoxicated at the time of the crime. Intoxication can lessen inhibitions and decision-making skills, resulting in a decrease in liability. If you were drugged or involuntarily intoxicated a court may also find you not guilty.
3. Duress: You may have committed the robbery under duress if someone was threatening you with bodily harm if you did not comply. If you can prove that you were coerced into committing the crime and had no reasonable chance to avoid doing it without potential harm, your sentence could be lessened.
4. Entrapment: In the same vein as duress, a government agent such as a police officer could have coerced you into committing the crime. They may have done so for a variety of reasons. If you can prove that you committed the crime under pressure from a government agent it can be a solid defense.

Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer?

When facing any criminal charge it is wise to acquire the services of a seasoned attorney. When you are facing a capital felony such as armed robbery you will need a skilled lawyer on your side. They will be able to effectively assess the details of your case to determine which defense listed above, or another, would be most beneficial to your situation. They can help gather relevant evidence, communicate with necessary parties, and defend you in a court of law.