New York Robbery Defense Lawyer

When you’re accused of robbery or burglary in New York City, your entire life can feel like it’s been turned upside down. These are serious felonies with severe consequences, but a strong defense can make all the difference. At Brill Legal Group, we understand the complexity and urgency of these cases. Let’s explore what robbery and burglary mean under New York law, the potential penalties, common defense strategies, and why experienced legal support matters.

What is Considered Robbery and Burglary under New York Law?

Robbery and burglary are often mentioned together, but they have distinct legal definitions in New York. Robbery is defined as forcibly stealing property from another person, usually involving violence or the threat of violence. For example, if someone grabs a wallet on the street and uses physical force to overcome the victim’s resistance, that constitutes robbery. It’s considered a violent felony, and the use or display of a weapon increases the severity of the charge.

Burglary, in contrast, is about unlawful entry with intent to commit a crime inside, such as theft or assault. Someone could commit burglary by breaking into a home, business, or any building without permission, intending to steal, assault, or commit another offense. The law grades burglary based on factors like whether the property was a dwelling, whether it was occupied, and if weapons were involved.

Understanding these nuances is vital because charges can escalate quickly—what starts as a trespassing allegation can turn into burglary or robbery if certain elements are present. This is why having a defense lawyer who understands both the law and how prosecutors build their cases is so important.

The Real-Life Consequences of Robbery & Burglary Convictions

Being charged with robbery or burglary isn’t just a legal issue—it can affect your job, your family, and your entire future. In New York, a conviction for first-degree robbery or burglary can mean up to 25 years in state prison. Even lesser charges, like third-degree robbery or burglary, carry years of incarceration, along with significant fines and a permanent criminal record.

Beyond imprisonment, there are collateral consequences. Convicted individuals often face hurdles in finding jobs or housing, may lose professional licenses, and could even be barred from certain public benefits. For non-citizens, these convictions can lead to deportation proceedings. Imagine trying to explain a robbery conviction to a potential employer or landlord—it’s a stigma that follows you for life.

Additionally, New York treats these offenses as violent crimes, which means prosecutors and judges are less likely to offer lenient plea deals. Having an experienced legal team defending you can help protect not just your freedom, but your reputation and your family’s stability.

Building a Strategic Defense: How Your New York Robery Defense Attorney Can Help

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed or hopeless if you’re arrested for robbery or burglary, but remember that you have rights and options. A strong defense often starts with a thorough investigation of the facts. Was there mistaken identity? Did law enforcement follow proper procedures? Was your intent misunderstood or mischaracterized?

Common defenses include:

• Challenging the Evidence: Perhaps surveillance footage is grainy, or eyewitnesses are unreliable. Your defense can attack the strength of the prosecution’s evidence.
• Lack of Intent: Particularly for burglary, if you entered a building without intending to commit a crime, this could weaken the charge.
• Alibi: Providing evidence that you were elsewhere at the time of the alleged offense is a strong defense.
• Violations of Rights: If police conducted an illegal search, failed to read you your rights, or otherwise breached protocol, key evidence might be suppressed.
• Duress or Coercion: If someone threatened you into participating, your attorney can bring this context to light.

Every case is unique. At Brill Legal Group, we prepare customized defenses, combing through police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence to find holes in the prosecution’s narrative. Sometimes, early intervention by your attorney can even prevent charges from being filed in the first place. The sooner you reach out for help, the more options you’ll have.

Why Having the Right Robbery Defense Attorney Makes a Difference

Navigating robbery and burglary charges without skilled legal support is a risky gamble. The criminal justice system in New York is complex, with countless rules and legal nuances that can make or break your case. Prosecutors are trained to pursue convictions aggressively, and public defenders are often overloaded with cases.

Working with a top-rated criminal defense lawyer at Brill Legal Group means your lawyer will advocate fiercely for your rights, keep you informed at every stage, and relentlessly pursue the best outcome. Whether that means fighting for a case dismissal, negotiating a favorable plea, or going to trial, your defense team is your most important resource. We know how to challenge evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and spot when your constitutional rights have been violated.

You deserve a team that cares about the details, offers honest advice, and never treats your case like just another file. We know your future—and the wellbeing of your family—depends on the outcome.

What To Do If You’re Arrested for Robbery or Burglary in NYC

If you’re arrested, under investigation, or the NYPD wants to talk to you, the most important thing you can do is remain calm and exercise your rights. Don’t answer questions without an attorney present. Anything you say can and will be used against you later. Politely ask for a lawyer and refuse to sign or admit anything until you’ve had legal counsel.

Contact Brill Legal Group immediately. Early intervention can limit damaging statements, initiate a rapid investigation, and sometimes influence the charges the district attorney ultimately files. We’ll guide you through every step—from arraignment to trial, or even appeals if necessary.

Remember, being accused is not the same as being guilty. The law presumes your innocence, and we make sure your side of the story is heard, with every available defensive strategy by your side.

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FAQs About Robbery and Burglary Defense

What’s the difference between robbery and burglary in New York?
Robbery involves using force or the threat of force to steal property directly from another person. Burglary, in contrast, is about illegally entering a building with the intent to commit a crime inside, whether or not theft or confrontation with a person actually occurs.

Can I be charged with burglary even if I didn’t steal anything?
Yes. In New York, the critical element for burglary is unauthorized entry with the intent to commit any crime inside—not just theft. Even if you didn’t take anything, you could still be charged with burglary if the prosecution thinks you intended to commit a crime.

What if I was misidentified as the perpetrator?
Mistaken identity is a common defense. Eyewitness testimony can be unreliable, especially in stressful or chaotic situations. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly, challenge flawed identifications, and seek evidence—like surveillance or alibi witnesses—that support your innocence.

Should I talk to police if I’m innocent?
No. Even innocent people can inadvertently say things that hurt their case. Always request an attorney before any police questioning. Your right to remain silent is there to protect you—use it, and then call Brill Legal Group for immediate representation.