San Diego’s Trusted Criminal Defense Attorneys
Your Strong and Loyal
Allies in Criminal Defense
San Diego’s Trusted Criminal Defense Attorneys
Your Strong and Loyal
Allies in Criminal Defense
Lawyer for Robbery Case San Diego
Being accused of robbery is a serious legal matter with life-changing consequences. Unlike other theft-related offenses, robbery is classified as a violent felony in California and is considered a strike offense under the state’s Three Strikes Law. If convicted, you could face years in prison, a permanent felony record, and lasting impacts on your future, including job opportunities, immigration status, and civil rights.
If you or a loved one is facing these charges, hiring a skilled and compassionate lawyer for robbery case San Diego defendants trust is critical. At Flores Legal Allies, we do more than defend—we become your legal ally. We listen to your story, help you make sense of what’s happening, and fight to protect your rights and your future. Our goal is not just to win, but to bring calm, strategy, and clarity to a stressful criminal situation.
Led by attorney Andrew Flores, our firm is committed to providing high-level legal representation with a human-centered approach. We'll explain robbery laws in California, potential penalties, legal strategies, and why choosing the right defense attorney can make all the difference.
What Is Robbery in California?
Robbery is defined under California Penal Code §211 as:
“The felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from their person or immediate presence, and against their will, accomplished by means of force or fear.”
In simple terms, robbery is theft that involves violence or threats.
Key elements the prosecution must prove:
- You took someone else’s property
- The property was in their possession or within their immediate control
- You used force or fear to take it
- You intended to deprive them of the property permanently or for a significant time
Even slight force or threats can be enough for prosecutors to file robbery charges, especially if the alleged victim was intimidated or scared. Unlike simple theft or shoplifting, robbery is always a felony.
First-Degree vs. Second-Degree Robbery
California law separates robbery into two degrees:
First-Degree Robbery (PC §212.5(a))
- Robbery of someone inside their home (residential robbery)
- Robbery of someone using or just exited an ATM
- Robbery of passengers in public transit (bus, train, taxi, Uber/Lyft) Penalty: 3 to 9 years in state prison
Second-Degree Robbery (PC §212.5(c))
- All other types of robbery Penalty: 2 to 5 years in state prison
Both degrees can be enhanced with additional penalties if a weapon was used, the victim was seriously injured, or the crime was committed by multiple people.
Robbery vs. Other Theft Crimes
It’s important to understand how robbery is different from related charges:
- Theft: Taking property without permission, but without force or threat
- Burglary (PC §459): Entering a building with intent to commit theft or a felony
- Shoplifting (PC §459.5): Taking retail merchandise without violence
- Assault or Battery: Physical violence without theft
Because robbery involves both theft and violence, it is considered far more serious and often results in aggressive prosecution. This makes working with a strategic lawyer for robbery case San Diego essential.
Robbery Is a Strike Under California’s Three Strikes Law
Robbery is considered a strike offense in California. This means:
- A first strike increases the stakes of future charges
- A second strike doubles the sentence for future felonies
- A third strike can result in 25 years to life in prison
Even if this is your first offense, the long-term consequences are real. A conviction can remain on your record for life unless expunged. That’s why early and aggressive defense is critical.
Penalties for Robbery
The penalties for robbery in California depend on the degree of the offense, the facts of the case, and your criminal history.
Base Penalties:
- First-Degree Robbery: 3 to 9 years in state prison
- Second-Degree Robbery: 2 to 5 years in state prison
- Felony probation (in some rare cases)
Possible Sentence Enhancements:
- Use of a deadly weapon: Adds 1–10 years
- Great bodily injury: Adds 3–6 years
- Gang-related robbery: May lead to longer sentences under PC §186.22
- Multiple victims: Each victim can lead to separate robbery counts
- Use of a gun: Adds 10, 20, or 25-to-life under California’s 10-20-Life law (PC §12022.53)
Other consequences may include:
- Lifetime ban on gun ownership
- Deportation or denial of citizenship (for non-citizens)
- Loss of professional licenses
- Barriers to employment and housing
Legal Defenses to Robbery Charges
At Flores Legal Allies, we know that every case is different. That’s why we take the time to understand your situation, build trust, and develop a custom legal strategy tailored to your case. Below are common defenses we may use:
1. Mistaken Identity
Many robbery cases rely on eyewitnesses or surveillance footage that may be unreliable or unclear. We work to discredit weak identifications.
2. False Accusation
Sometimes, people lie or exaggerate events—especially if there’s a dispute, revenge, or miscommunication. We dig into the background and inconsistencies.
3. No Use of Force or Fear
If the incident was actually a theft without violence or threat, the charge should not be robbery. This can reduce the case to a lesser offense.
4. Alibi or Lack of Evidence
If you were not at the scene or the evidence is circumstantial, we challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt.
5. Consent or Claim of Right
If you believed you had a legal right to the property, it might negate criminal intent. Though rare, this defense can apply in some situations.
6. Illegal Police Conduct
If law enforcement violated your rights through illegal searches, stops, or coerced statements, we can seek to have evidence suppressed.
We don’t rely on templates. We investigate every detail and fight strategically to protect you.
Why You Need an Ally—Not Just a Lawyer
Being charged with robbery is overwhelming. You may be scared, confused, and unsure of who to trust. At Flores Legal Allies, we provide more than legal knowledge—we provide emotional clarity and strong advocacy. We understand how a criminal case affects your family, your mental health, and your future.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- We listen before we act
- We explain your options clearly—without pressure
- We bring calm to a stressful situation
- We defend with purpose, strategy, and care
- We become your ally—not just your attorney
Attorney Andrew Flores has built a reputation in San Diego as a defense lawyer who is both skilled in the courtroom and compassionate with his clients. Many people come to us after being treated like just another case elsewhere. We change that experience—because we know what’s at stake.
How We Can Help
At Flores Legal Allies, we understand that being charged with robbery is not just a legal emergency—it’s a life emergency. Your freedom, your name, and your future are on the line.
When you hire our firm, we will:
- Carefully review all evidence and police reports
- Identify legal flaws, violations of your rights, or overcharging
- Work to get charges dismissed or reduced
- Negotiate for probation, alternative sentencing, or rehabilitation options
- Build a strong defense and fight for your best possible outcome
Whether you’re facing your first charge or you’ve been through the system before, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way—with strength, compassion, and strategy.
Contact Flores Legal Allies today for a confidential consultation.
Let us be your legal ally—and help you take back control of your future.
Andrew Flores
San Diego Criminal Defence Lawyer