How to Beat a Robbery Case in Maryland

Getting charged with robbery in Maryland is a serious matter -but it�s not the end of the road. At FrizWoods, we've helped clients across the state challenge these accusations head-on. If you or a loved one is facing a robbery charge, understanding the law and the available defenses is the first step toward protecting your freedom.

What Counts as Robbery in Maryland?

Robbery in Maryland isn't just theft-it involves force or the threat of force. Under Maryland Criminal Law section 3-402, robbery is defined as the taking and carrying away of property from someone's person or control by force or threat of force, with the intent to deprive them of it permanently.

The charge becomes more severe if a dangerous weapon is used, classified under section 3-403 as robbery with a dangerous weapon, which enhances penalties but is not a separate crime.

Common Defenses to Robbery Charges

Every case is unique, but here are some of the most effective defenses we've used to beat robbery charges in Maryland:

1. Lack of Force or Threat

To qualify as robbery, the alleged theft must be accompanied by violence or intimidation. If no force or threat was used, the charge might be reduced to simple theft.

2. Mistaken Identity

Robberies often happen quickly, and eyewitness identifications are frequently unreliable. Surveillance footage, cell phone records, or alibis can be critical in showing the wrong person was charged.

3. No Intent to Permanently Deprive

Intent is key. If you can show you didn't intend to permanently keep the property-say it was taken as a joke or to settle a misunderstanding-prosecutors may have a hard time proving robbery.

4. Afterthought Theft

Maryland law distinguishes between theft that occurs during a violent act and theft that happens afterward. If the alleged robbery occurred only after a confrontation had already ended, the prosecution may not be able to establish the necessary intent.

5. Duress or Coercion

If someone forced you to commit the act by threatening harm to you or a loved one, you might raise a duress defense.

What Are the Penalties for Robbery?

Robbery (without a weapon): Felony with up to 15 years in prison.
Robbery with a dangerous weapon: Felony with up to 20 years in prison.
Armed robbery involving a firearm: May carry enhanced penalties under Maryland's firearm laws.

How FrizWoods Can Help

With a deep understanding of Maryland robbery laws and local court procedures, the team at FrizWoods can identify weak points in the prosecution's case and aggressively pursue dismissal or reduction of charges.

We've beaten robbery cases with shaky eyewitnesses.
We've suppressed improperly obtained confessions.
We've exposed illegal search and seizure practices.

Explore our page on first-degree assault for examples of how force elements cross over in criminal cases. If your case involves a weapon, visit our gun charge defense page. For theft-related comparisons, check out our breakdown on robbery vs burglary vs theft.

Take Action Quickly

Facing a robbery charge can feel overwhelming, but the right defense strategy can make all the difference. If you've been arrested or charged, don't delay-early legal intervention is key.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between robbery and theft in Maryland?

A: Robbery includes the use or threat of force. Theft is simply taking property without permission. Robbery is treated more severely because it's considered a crime against the person.