Robbery vs Burglary in Montgomery, AL: What is the Difference?

It can be useful to understand the difference between robbery vs burglary in Montgomery, AL, if you are facing charges of either offense. Theft crimes, including robbery, can vary significantly depending on the details of the case itself. To understand your legal options and potential penalties, don’t hesitate to hire a robbery lawyer who can guide you through the process.

Types of Theft Crimes in Alabama

If you’re facing a theft charge in the state of Alabama, you should consider consulting a qualified Montgomery robbery attorney. It’s important to entrust your case to an experienced legal professional who understands the various types of theft and relevant robbery and burglary laws. Theft is a broad term that can describe a range of unlawful acts, from misdemeanor offenses to felony crimes.

Theft refers to the unlawful taking of another party’s or an individual’s property without their permission and with the intention of keeping it permanently within your possession. In Alabama, theft is also referred to as larceny. Shoplifting is a form of theft involving stolen merchandise from a store. Burglary is a type of theft wherein the defendant is accused of illegally entering a property or building in order to commit theft or another felony.

There are a few key differences when looking at the legal distinctions between theft offenses and robbery. In general, robbery is considered a violent crime, whereas theft crimes such as burglary are considered non-violent crimes. Robbery must include the element of taking another person’s property through force or threat of force.

In 2024, approximately 1,565 property crimes per 100,000 people occurred in Alabama. This includes instances of larceny theft, which made up 73.4 percent of all property crimes, and burglary, which was 15.6 percent of total property crimes that year. 9.4 percent of violent crimes in Alabama that year were robberies.

Potential Defenses Against Robbery and Theft

There are numerous potential defense strategies your burglary lawyer may use when building your case. Depending on the specifics of the crime, the most effective defense approach can vary. One common defense, known as lack of intent, is that the defendant did not mean to commit the offense or understand the consequences of doing so. Another defense strategy may be to assert that there is an insufficient amount of solid evidence to convict the defendant of the crime.

Other defenses include arguing the crime was committed under duress or due to entrapment. Another defense for theft offenses is that the defendant believed they had a claim of right, meaning they sincerely believed they had the right to possess property despite it legally belonging to someone else. There are several defense approaches your lawyer can take, depending on what may be most advantageous given your unique circumstances.

Hire a Robbery Lawyer from The Law Office of Richard K. Keith

Mr. Richard K. Keith has been practicing criminal defense and representing clients across the state of Alabama for over 30 years. Mr. Keith is committed to providing guidance to his clients through every stage of the criminal prosecution process. No matter the circumstances of your unique case, you can feel confident with the skills and practical experience of the team at The Law Office of Richard K. Keith.

Felony charges such as robbery and burglary within the Montgomery, AL area are usually handled by the county’s Circuit Court system. The Montgomery County Courthouse is located at 251 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery, AL.

FAQs

How Does Burglary Differ From Robbery?

Burglary and robbery are both unlawful acts that involve the intent to take another person’s property permanently and without their permission. There is an important distinction between the two crimes. Burglary entails illegally entering into another party’s property in order to commit theft or a felony. Burglary is generally not seen as a violent crime. By contrast, robbery is considered a violent crime. Robbery is theft through the use of actual or threatened violence.

What Is the Most Serious Theft Crime in AL?

There are numerous types of theft crimes in Alabama, and felonies are generally considered the most serious. Generally, cases of theft are regarded more seriously the more expensive the stolen property is and the more involved or violent the theft itself was. Burglary and robbery are both felony violations and can vary in severity depending on the case. Burglary or robbery in the first degree typically involves the use of a deadly weapon, whether used or not.

What Are the Penalties for Burglary or Robbery?

If convicted of burglary or robbery, you can face legal penalties such as serving a jail or prison sentence and paying fines. The severity of sentencing depends on how serious the crime itself was. Different offenses carry different penalties. Less severe offenses are more likely to receive a lighter sentence. Your criminal defense lawyer can advocate for a lesser punishment on your behalf if you are convicted.

Is It Possible to Fight a Robbery or Burglary Charge?

Yes, it is possible to fight against a robbery or burglary charge in the state of Alabama. In some cases, it may be worth fighting these charges. The legal approach that may be most beneficial for your situation depends on the case details, such as the evidence available, the value of the intended stolen items, and whether violence was involved.

Do I Need a Theft Defense Attorney in Alabama?

In Alabama, you are not legally required to hire a theft defense attorney if you are facing criminal charges. It is strongly recommended that you consult with a qualified and experienced criminal defense lawyer. A skilled defender can advise you on what course of action may be most beneficial for your case and guide you through every stage of the criminal process.

Strong Criminal Defense Against Robbery and Burglary Charges

The team of legal professionals at The Law Office of Richard K. Keith is committed to each of our clients. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation with a theft attorney who has extensive experience and can offer insightful counsel.