Robbery and Burglary are Two Different Offenses
5 years ago by Justin M. Schiks
Robbery and burglary are both serious criminal offenses in the State of Minnesota. However, they are very different charges with different legal elements. If you have been charged with robbery, burglary, or any other crime in Woodbury, it is essential that you retain an experienced attorney to represent you in your case as soon as possible.
The experienced Woodbury criminal defense lawyers at JS Defense, PA, are ready to help you start formulating a strong legal defense in response to your criminal charge. We can also represent you at all of your hearings in criminal court and will work to help you pursue the best possible result in your criminal case. Please call us today at (651) 968-9652 or contact us online to learn more about how we can assist you.
What Constitutes a Robbery Charge in Minnesota?
Robbery is, first and foremost, a theft crime that also includes the use of force or threats of force against the alleged victim. The classic robbery scenario is where an accused demands money from some other person, such as a bank teller, and the accused threatens to hurt the person if he or she does not comply with the demand. In the State of Minnesota, circumstances like these constitute a simple robbery.
In more serious cases, however, the crime may become an aggravated robbery. A simple robbery can become an aggravated robbery in cases where the accused uses a dangerous weapon, such as a knife or a gun, during the commission of the robbery and/or where the alleged victim suffers one or more injuries during the course of the robbery.
If you are ultimately convicted of a robbery offense in Minnesota, a judge can sentence you to anywhere between ten and 20 years of incarceration.
What Constitutes a Burglary Charge in Minnesota?
Burglary charges in Minnesota are somewhat different from robbery charges. In Minnesota, burglary means entering another person’s home without the permission of the owner with the purpose and intention of committing a criminal offense. It is not necessary that the accused intend to commit a theft in the house for burglary to occur. Instead, the accused may commit burglary if he or she enters another person’s home while intending to damage some property inside, for example.
If the state proves that you are guilty of burglary beyond a reasonable doubt, a judge can sentence you to between one and 20 years of incarceration.
Speak with an Experienced Woodbury Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime in Woodbury, it is essential that you have an attorney on your side who is familiar with protecting the rights of the accused. The legal team at JS Defense, PA, will explain all of your options to you in clear terms and help you make the best choice for your case.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced Woodbury criminal defense lawyer, please call us today at (651) 968-9652 or contact us online for more information about how we can assist you.