Armed Robbery Defense (Article 179): Protection Against Serious Charges
Robbery is an attack committed with the intent to unlawfully appropriate another person''s movable property, accompanied by violence dangerous to life or health, or the threat of such violence. This is a particularly serious crime strictly punished under Georgian law. Charges can be aggravated by circumstances such as group action, use of weapons, illegal entry into a dwelling, or appropriating large amounts of property. Often, prosecutors attempt to classify theft or robbery (without violence) as armed robbery to secure a harsher sentence. For example, using a toy gun or a knife-like object can be considered armed robbery if the victim perceived a real threat. In such cases, the role of a qualified lawyer is crucial to correctly assess the factual circumstances and ensure fair legal qualification.
Legal.ge offers criminal defense lawyers with years of experience in robbery cases. Our experts will help you gather evidence, interview witnesses, and defend your position in court to avoid an unjust verdict.
What Does Robbery Defense Service Cover?
The lawyer''s service focuses on refuting or mitigating serious charges:
- Reclassification of Charges: Fighting to prove that the act was not armed robbery (Article 179) but robbery without violence (Article 178) or theft (Article 177), which carry lighter sentences.
- Weapon Expertise: Determining whether the object used was actually a weapon or an object used as a weapon.
- Confirming Alibi: Gathering evidence (camera footage, witnesses) that the accused was elsewhere during the crime.
- Checking Identification Procedures: Verifying the legality of police lineups and identifying violations.
- Jury Trial: Trying the case before a jury, which often increases the chances of acquittal.
Common Scenarios and Risks
Charges are often related to the following situations:
- Armed Assault: Attacking a shop, bank, or private individual using a weapon.
- Home Invasion: Illegal entry into a residence using violence.
- Street Mugging: Taking items from a citizen under threat.
- Attack on Taxi Drivers: A passenger taking money or the vehicle from the driver.
Georgian Legal Framework
Article 179 of the Criminal Code of Georgia provides for imprisonment from 5 to 7 years. If the crime is committed by a group, with illegal entry into a dwelling, or to seize a large amount of property, the sentence increases to 6 to 9 years. In particularly aggravating circumstances (organized group, particularly large amount), the sentence is 11 to 15 years. It is important to note that robbery is considered complete from the moment of the attack, regardless of whether the perpetrator managed to seize the item.
Steps in the Process with a Specialist
Working with a lawyer includes:
- Reviewing Case Materials: Analyzing the indictment and evidence.
- Strategy: Deciding between pleading guilty for a plea bargain or fighting for acquittal.
- Evidence: Obtaining alternative video footage and expertise.
- Court: Defense before a jury or judge.
Why Legal.ge?
Robbery charges pose a serious threat to a person''s freedom. Legal.ge connects you with lawyers experienced in the toughest criminal cases who know how to protect a client under a strict legal system.
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